cover image Buddhist Stupas in Asia: The Shape of Perfection

Buddhist Stupas in Asia: The Shape of Perfection

Joe Cummings, Bill Wassman. Lonely Planet, $34.99 (176pp) ISBN 978-1-86450-120-9

Lonely Planet presents Buddhist Stupas in Asia: The Shape of Perfection, exploring stupas (sacred structures that function as memorials of enlightenment) in 13 Asian countries. As shown in more than 250 color photographs, stupas are tremendously diverse in appearance, ranging from gold-topped domes to marble temples to giant sculptures. Some stupas serve as reliquaries, or repositories for relics of enlightened masters. This informative, beautiful book is a fine introduction to the sacred art and architecture of Buddhism. Sept.)