Discover the art, origins and its relevance today
Images
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Life of the Buddha in Burmese language. Burma, 19th century -
Shijia Rulai ying hua shi ji. China, 1808 -
Painting of the procession of the tooth relic at Kandy. Sri Lanka, c.1796-1815 -
Buddhist cosmology. Burma, 19th century -
Lotus Sutra (‘Myōhō rengekyō’). Japan, 1636 -
Top: Thangka painting from the collection of Sir Gore Ousely. India, 1788-1805. Below: Life of the Buddha in Burmese. Burma, 19th century
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How did Buddhism grow from its beginnings in 6th-century BCE India to having over 500 million international followers today? How did the life of the Buddha unfold? What inspires Buddhist practice?
Encounter the outstanding beauty of Buddhist manuscripts and artworks in the largest exhibition of its kind ever held at the British Library. Explore rare treasures from the Library’s collection including colourful scrolls, precious artefacts and stunning illuminated books spanning 2,000 years and 20 countries.
Meet the women whose stories are told through Buddhist scripture. Admire artefacts made by hand in a setting inspired by a Buddhist temple. From sacred texts written on tree bark, palm leaves and gold plates to exquisite silk scrolls of major sutras, follow the life of the Buddha and his previous incarnations. Find out how Buddhism was pivotal in developing writing and printing techniques, transmitting ideas and stories across Asia. Lose yourself in a natural soundscape.
Contemporary art from Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan and ritual objects used in contemplative practice provide a window into everyday life in Buddhist communities in the 21st century. Understand current customs and beliefs, gain insight into meditation, and experience the feeling of stepping into a monastic library.
Mindfulness. Compassion. Tolerance. Many of us have heard of the principles of Buddhism. Discover their origins, see beautiful artworks, and understand what these concepts mean for Buddhists in the world today.
Further Information
There is an audio-described tour for blind and partially-sighted visitors on Monday 27 January 2020. Click here to find out more and book.
If you have any questions about your visit, please contact Customer Services: Customer-Services@bl.uk or +44 (0)1937 546060.
If you’re a group of 10 people or more, get a 10% discount off ticket prices.
Full Price: £14.00
Senior 60+: £12.00
Student: £7.00
Registered Unemployed: £7.00
Disabled: £7.00
National Art Pass Senior: £6.00
18-25: £7.00
Child 11 and Under: £0.00
Child 12-17: £7.00
National Art Pass: £7.00
Find out more about the learning programme to accompany the exhibition, including primary school workshops, secondary school workshops, teacher events, family activities and adult courses.
Explore more Buddhism with our accompanying events programme
Part of Asian Art in London