The Nepalese Caitya

·期刊原文
The Nepalese Caitya: 1500 Years of
Buddhist Votive Architecture in the Kathmandu Valley,
By Niels Gutschow
Reviewed by Ananda W. P. Guruge
Hsi Lai Journal of Humanistic Buddhism
V. 1 (2000)
pp. 195-196
Copyright 2000 by The International Academy of Buddhism,
Hsi Lai University

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p.195

Lumbini International Research Institute deserves to be congratulated on its excellent monograph whose quality of production matches the in-depth treatment of a subject of signal interest. As George Michell says in the blurb, "The volume is, however, much more than a compilation of architectural evidence. The text reveals a profound understanding of the cultural context of the Caityas, their forms and sculptural decoration. The comprehensive, yet approachable treatment of the Mahayana Buddhist background of the monuments details the religious meanings of Caityas, without shrouding them in fashionable esoteric mystery. The chapter on ritual is of particular interest, since it gives an ethnographic dimension to the study, with its detailed observations of daily life and urban festivals. Further chapters present a typological classification of the Caityas illustrated with carefully chosen drawings and photographs. The historical progression is well argued."

The Foreword by David N. Gellner is a concise essay on Newar Buddhism.Sandwiched between two sections on early and modem studies on Newar Buddhism, is an informative presentation of the Newar social organization and the basic features of Buddhism as prevalent among them. Though brief, the insightful observations of Gellner enables one to understand the complexity of Nepali Buddhism where the three major traditions co-exist and interact with no apparent clash or contradiction.

Niels Gutschow's monumental work attracts much praise. Technically it is perfect. It contains hundreds of beautifully executed drawings and fine photographs of "Never, or hardly ever studied monuments in the Kathmandu Valley." Maps and tables, detailed architectural drawings and transliterations and translations of

p.196

inscriptions supplement and enhance his lucid writing. The book is expected to be a definitive work for many years to come. Already, it is indispensable to the student of Buddhism and its culture, in general, and the magnificent architectural and artistic heritage of Nepal, in particular.

I have had a forty-three year old acquaintance with the Kathmandu Valley, commencing with the General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists in 1956. In over twenty visits with the most recent in this year, I have seen many of the monuments so effectively discussed in this volume. Reading the book has therefore being an exceedingly rewarding experience. Gutschow's deep understanding of the artistic traditions of Nepal makes him a wonderful guide, exposing to full light what is concealed and spotlighting even the slightest detail which enables one to appreciate and admire the tireless efforts of nameless artists.

In one book, I learned more than I could over all my visits. My advice to prospective readers would be "Read it, if you have already been there, Take it with you if you are going there." I recommend it as required reading for all students of Buddhist culture.