Summary
Highlights
Teacher Yang welcomes viewers and introduces Unit 3, focusing on the Arts of India, Central Asia, and the Middle East for Quarter 3. The lesson objectives are outlined, including analyzing art elements and principles, understanding art's role in daily life, describing unique art forms, using motifs and designs, and identifying artistic contributions from the named countries.
The ancient period is characterized by bronze and copper statuettes, and steatite seals that exhibit vigor and concern for surface texture. The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, dating from the 2nd century BCE to 600 CE, are significant rock-cut monuments featuring Buddhist religious art, paintings, and sculptures.
During the classical period, the image of Shiva transformed into Shiva the cosmic dancer. This iconic four-armed figure is depicted holding fire, a drum, and making reassuring and downward-pointing gestures towards a dwarf he dances upon.
This period saw the evolution from Vedism to Hinduism or Brahmanism. The two major Indian epics, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, emerged during this transitional time.
The Mogul period significantly enriched Indian culture, particularly in painting and architecture. A prime example is the Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in 1632 in memory of his wife. Another notable Buddhist monument mentioned is the Borobudur in Java, built in the 8th century after Buddhism's decline in India.
Diwali, the Hindu New Year, is celebrated by Hindus worldwide in October or November. This colorful three- to five-day holiday involves cleaning homes to welcome the new year and opening windows for Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Homes are lit with special diwali clay lamps (diyas) as Lakshmi is believed not to enter unlit houses, giving rise to the name 'Festival of Lights'.