3 Review(s)

This book explores pilgrimage as experienced in Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim faith communities. It addresses shared goals of personal development and communal solidarity as deep human needs. Unique in scope, this richly illustrated catalogue addresses religious diversity in a global perspective. Dating from the 12th century to the present day, 95 historical mementos of pilgrimages provide the focal point for a collection of essays by leading international scholars. Fine examples include sculptures in wood and limestone from France, copper and bronze from Tibet, a pilgrimage itinerary book from Japan, stained glass from the Middle Ages, a Renaissance enamelled chalice from Italy, a lavish embellished Quran from Iran, and Islamic prayer scrolls in silver amulet casings. By studying objects of supreme artistic skill along with mass-produced objects and personal acquisitions such as stones or soil from the holy place, the scholars shed new light on the continuity of pilgrimage and faith, and human motivations and experiences.