"For thousands of years, the Indian sub-continent has been the battleground of conquerors and the birthplace of great religions, so it is hardly surprisig that its arts have been uniquely varied and moving. Indian sculpture embraces severe portraits of the Buddha, 'the Compassionate One', along with female spirits of disconcerting voluptuousness and wonderfully poised, multi-limbed figures of gods such as Shiva, stepping out to cosmic rhythms as the Lord of the Dance. In painting, Hindu miniatures illustrated the adventures of gods and lovers, while the Mughal emperors patronized a brilliant, elegant court art featuring portraits, battle scenes and everyday events such as polo matches. No book could do full justice to Indian art, but the plates in this book make a superb introduction to an unforgettable subject"--Page 4 of cover