Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization

by Heinrich Zimmer

Overview

A classic introduction to Indian art by acclaimed scholar Heinrich Zimmer

A landmark work that demystifies the rich tradition of Indian art, Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization analyzes key motifs found in legend, myth, and folklore taken directly from the Sanskrit. It provides a comprehensive introduction to visual thinking and picture reading in Indian art and thought. Ultimately, the book shows that profound Hindu and Buddhist intuitions about the riddles of life and death are universally recognizable.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780691279435
Publisher:	Princeton University Press
Publication date:	01/20/2026
Series:	Bollingen Series
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	296

About the Author

Heinrich Zimmer (1890–1943) was an Indologist, linguist, and historian of South Asian art. His books include The Art of Indian Asia, Philosophies of India, and The King and the Corpse (all Princeton). Joseph Campbell (1904–1987) was the author of many books on comparative mythology, including The Hero with a Thousand Faces and The Masks of God.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“Zimmer moves among [the myths of India] unhurriedly, with a respect that amounts to devotion. Gradually his comments bring to light the universal meanings.”—New York Times

“In viewing India’s art and civilization, the late Dr. Heinrich Zimmer, a man of penetrating intellect, the keenest esthetic sensibility, and a predilection for psychoanalytic methods, found unlimited material for employing all three qualities. . . . The Indian material offered is of the best quality: the language in which it is presented is imaginative, figurative, poetic, vigorous.”—W. Norman Brown

Editorial Reviews

"Zimmer moves among [the myths of India] unhurriedly, with a respect that amounts to devotion. Gradually his comments bring to light the universal meanings beneath the archaic exterior."

New York Times