— First, you need to briefly read the first chapter of John Cort’s book “Framing the Jina” called “The
Archaeology of Jina Images.Preview the document” You may refer to the book’s introduction for helpful
background reading, particularly pp. 9-12, where Cort discusses some helpful background about the idol and
image in early Jain contexts. You will also read Robert DeCaroli’s “Conspicuous Absences Preview the
document,” which discusses the transition from aniconic to iconic representation in early Buddhism.
— And then, After reading Cort’s and DeCaroli’s articles, I’d like you to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s
exhibits on Jain and Buddhist art. Explore the exhibit entitled “The Peaceful Conquerors: Jain Manuscript
Painting (https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2009/jain-manuscript-painting),” and watch John
Guy’s “Identifying Jainism in Indian Art” （which is in the website）
— Also explore the Met’s exhibit titled “Buddhism along the Silk Road
(https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2012/buddhism),” and watch its short intro video that gives a
very helpful visual introduction to the spread of Buddhism from India to Central and East Asia.
—— Write a short, 1.5 page review (400-500 words) of one of the two exhibits. In your review, mention the
following:
1) Something you found surprising or interesting in the associated video
2) Choose an icon or image from the exhibit and describe the image/icon. Give as much historical detail as
possible, and where possible, draw from the insights of Cort’s and DeCaroli’s readings to supplement your
analysis.