The third title in a successful series designed to introduce Western audiences to China by way of Chinese art (including the previously recommended titles The Heart of China [VL-9/00] and Imperial Treasures of Chinese Art [VL-11/99]), the 2-tape Faces of Compassion draws on approximately 1,000 years of sculpture to explore the history and meaning of the practice of Buddhism in China. The first tape, subtitled "Buddha Empathy," explains that there are three basic subjects for this type of religious art--Buddhas, Bodhisattvas and Guardian Kings--and focuses on works dating from several different dynastic epochs, including the Shandong and Yun' Gang periods. Viewers learn about the materials used by Chinese sculptors and are shown some magnificent pieces (the Bodhisattva sculptures from the 10th century are especially striking), including cave sculptures. The second tape, "Buddha Enlightenment," places these religious sculptures in a sociopolitical context, showing how stylistic changes over the centuries reflected dynastic change and evolving social realities. Chinese art is an endlessly fascinating subject, and Faces of Compassion, like its predecessors, offers intriguing food for thought. Enthusiastically recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (P. Van Vleck)
Faces of Compassion: The Art of Contemplation
(2000) 2 videocassettes. 53 min. $39.95. Lee & Lee Communications. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 15, Issue 6
Faces of Compassion: The Art of Contemplation
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