Since my visits to the Hua Zang Si Buddhist Temple in San Francisco, my
intesest in Buddhism has become fueled even more. I will do a post on
that place of beauty and serenity before I leave for India where I am sure
I will be exposed to even more opportunities to pursue my interest in this
religion. In the meantime, I realize I never posted the pictures I took of
some of the Buddhas at the Asian Art Museum during my visit there a few
months ago with my friend, Joanne Olivieri, aka Poetic Shutterbug. I
realize that I did not photograph all the accompanying cards so some of
the treasures are unidentified. I will definitely have to return!
Additionally, let me apologize, in advance, about the quality of some of
the photographs, especially the identity cards. Some are very poor and out
of focus. We went on the free day for the museum and it was VERY
crowded. It was difficult time in front of some of the exhibits to get
quality photographs. I was just glad to be able to see them at all and I
wanted to share this incredible museum with you. Please, if you ever
visit San Francisco, add the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco to
your list of "must sees".
intesest in Buddhism has become fueled even more. I will do a post on
that place of beauty and serenity before I leave for India where I am sure
I will be exposed to even more opportunities to pursue my interest in this
religion. In the meantime, I realize I never posted the pictures I took of
some of the Buddhas at the Asian Art Museum during my visit there a few
months ago with my friend, Joanne Olivieri, aka Poetic Shutterbug. I
realize that I did not photograph all the accompanying cards so some of
the treasures are unidentified. I will definitely have to return!
Additionally, let me apologize, in advance, about the quality of some of
the photographs, especially the identity cards. Some are very poor and out
of focus. We went on the free day for the museum and it was VERY
crowded. It was difficult time in front of some of the exhibits to get
quality photographs. I was just glad to be able to see them at all and I
wanted to share this incredible museum with you. Please, if you ever
visit San Francisco, add the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco to
your list of "must sees".
The Bodhisattva Samantabhadra on an Elephant
The esoteric Buddhist king of passion, Ragaraja
Crowned and bejeweled Buddha image and throne
Green and yellow Buddha
The Buddhist deity Achala Vidyaraja
The Buddhist deity Vajradhara
Seated Buddha, Sri Lanka
The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara
The Buddha Shakyamuni as an ascetic
The Seated bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara
I am participating in Unknown Mami's Sundays in My City -
check out the site and join in the fun!
Carmen, your shots are phenomenal and the cards are perfect. The throne shot is wonderful. I took a shot of that and it didn't even come out.
ReplyDeleteAchala Vidyaraja is my favorite Buddha there. He is just so feisty and cute. Can't wait for your photos from India. Those will be so special.
@Poetic Shutterbug -
ReplyDeleteIf this computer keeps acting up, I might not be posting pictures from India...if it's not one thing, it's another!
As for the Buddhas, I think Shakyamuni is interesting - he's got an expression like he knows something no one else does! And the poor elephant that Samantabhadra is riding - he must be sad because his trunk isn't up!
My favorite is the Buddha Shakyamuni as an ascetic. You are going to have such a wonderful time on your trip.
ReplyDeletethey're all amazing, but the first one with the elephant has got to be my favourite - wonderful!
ReplyDeleteLovely. We visited several Buddist temples while we were in China. Such a wonderful atmosphere. I am a Unitarian Universalist. I find most religions fascinating and am willing to learn from each.
ReplyDeleteKat
Very nice Carmen-- I enjoyed these very much.
ReplyDeletexo jj
Are you going to visit India soon?
ReplyDeleteThis is a country that is full of mysteries and histories.
Love your post and images!
ReplyDeleteVery nice post and wonderful shots!
ReplyDeleteI went to a Japanese art exhibition yesterday but photographs weren't allowed!
Thanks for sharing;o)
***
Have a nice and happy week****
I find the art very interesting, but feel no special serenity or draw to the philosophy
ReplyDeleteoh, you will have more temples in India Carmen, am excited for you. these photographs are wonderful.
ReplyDeleteFantastic shots, Carmen..and the most identification cards too. They are intriguing to read.
ReplyDeleteUnknown Mami -
ReplyDeleteIsn't it funny, we all like different Buddhas! I had several favorites!
manuela -
I liked the elephant one, too, but I was sorry that it didn't have his trunk up...I always like my elephants that way.
Icy BC -
I have never seen so many Buddhas in one spot before except at Wat Po in Thailand - and I don't think I photographed them all!
betchai -
Yes, I know there are hundreds of phenomenal temples and places to see in India. Sadly, because of my mobility problems and use of a walker, many of them will be inaccessible to me but I'll do as much as I can, believe me. You, on the other hand, would really maximize a visit there!!
Sharkbytes (TM) -
Buddhism has always fascinated me and I find its
philosphyy of nonviolence very appealing. I went to service recently at temple here in San Francisco ( in Chinese ) and enjoyed the chanting. I was off in my own space and thoughts in prayer during that time but it was, somehow, peaceful for me.
Kat_RN -
I, too, find most religions interesting and, as long as they believe in a non violent philosophy, I totally support them and our sharing space on this earth. I take offense with those that espouse hatred. How lucky you were to visit China. I so much enjoyed following your blog and your travels.
Joanna Jenkins -
I am always happy to see you here. I was sorry to read about the loss of your stepfather. That is a very sad reason to have to take a trip home.
rainfield61 -
My flight to India is just a little over a month away. I will be there six months if all goes well. Think good thoughts for me, my friend, while you are out communing with nature!!
Glynis -
I am so happy you visited me from far away Cyprus. When I win the lottery, I will be there for a visit. I think it seems quite exciting. Once, on a cruise, I dined with the hotel director, who was from there - the only person I've ever met...except for you, from that island.
Cildemar -
So many museums and exhibits do not allow photography. We were not allowed to take photographs at the Picasso exhibit in San Francisco but, as long as we didn't use a flash, we could at the Asian Art Museum.
They are all so beautiful. I think my special favourite is the golden orange one from Sri Lanka.
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ReplyDeleteGanga Bhakti