Sikh art is usually identified with the glittering court of Ranjit Singh at Lahore. Assuming that the achievements of Lahore are well known, this book looks afield, at other courts and other non-courtly for art, seeking out fascinating and important aspects of Sikh art and cultural heritage that have not been studied before. Presenting original research on fresh areas, the articles offer new perspectives on the subject.

A major contribution of this volume is its focus on sacred objects and sites which derived not from the art-activity of a royal court, but developed under the direction of the Gurus themselves, or through the collective patronage of a community looking to fulfill its sacred needs.

The book also looks towards the present and future with essays on the images of and Sikhs in the modern and contemporary world. This includes the image of the Sikhs in photography, from early portraits to today's fashion images; the attempts of early-modern Punjab artists to give form to the Sikh ethos and history; and the grandiose project for the Khalsa Heritage Complex at Anandpur Sahib.

Beautifully presented with rare paintings and photographs.

Published: 2003
Pages: 148
Format: Hardcover