A deep and encompassing dive into the vast array of symbols and attributes that appear within the complex iconography of Tibetan Buddhism
The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols
is a portal into the rich, multifaceted, and profound symbolism of Tibetan sacred art. The succinct descriptions that accompany Robert Beer’s detailed line drawings reveal the origins, meanings, and functions of these symbols. Beer unravels the multiple layers of symbolism and meaning contained within the iconography, affording the reader a panoramic vision into the deeper dimensions of this sacred art.
Drawn largely from Beer’s monumental work
The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs,
the meticulous brush drawings in this book depict all of the major Buddhist symbols and motifs, including the various groups of auspicious symbols; cosmological symbols; natural and mythical animals, such as the dragon,
garuda
, and
makara
; the entire assembly of ritual tantric implements and weapons; magical and wrathful symbols; handheld emblems, attributes, and plants; esoteric Vajrayana offerings; and
mudras
, or ritual hand gestures.