Portraying the Guru: Art, Devotion and Identity in Sikhism

The study of Sikh art has been significantly advanced by the book on Sikh art evolution, which focuses on portraits of Sikh Gurus from the eighteenth to the twentieth century. It examines two hundred and fifty texts of art and highlights the spiritual and cultural needs of ordinary Sikhs and the urban middle class. It also emphasizes the significant role of Sikh art in the formation of a distinct Sikh community's identity, particularly during the colonial impact of the British Raj.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2024
Publisher: Manohar Publishers and Distributors

The study presents a significant advancement in the field of Sikh art, building upon the groundbreaking contributions of W.H. McLeod and B.N. Goswamy. The book delves into the evolution of Sikh art through portraits of Sikh Gurus from the eighteenth to the twentieth century, encompassing approximately two hundred and fifty art texts from various mediums scattered across museums and private collections worldwide. The author's insightful analysis highlights the spiritual and cultural significance of Guru Nanak's portraiture, catering not only to the needs of ordinary Sikhs but also resonating with the aspirations of the newly formed urban middle class. Additionally, the scholar critically evaluates Harjot Oberoi's study and underscores the pivotal role of Sikh art in shaping the distinct identity of the Sikh community. The author also acknowledges the impact of the Singh Sabha Movement (1873-1909) and the Akali Movement of 1920 onwards, which popularized devotional portraits of Guru Nanak despite the prohibition of idolatry in the sacred text Guru Granth Sahib. This shift in mentality within Sikh society is attributed to the colonial influence of the British Raj.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 150 x 224 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788119139941