Some of the world's most unusual and original artwork has come from Tibet. A creative history so vivid and sophisticated emerged from a desolate and frequently inaccessible setting that even China's emperors commissioned works. Interest in this enigmatic man has never been higher due to the growth of Buddhism in the West, encouraged by the exiled Dalai Lama's leadership, and the debate over Tibet's status. The entire history of Tibetan art is covered in this book, which emphasizes the intricate connection between the art and the local spirituality. From paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, silk embroidery, and a highly developed tradition of portraiture and ritual artifacts, to the Potala in Lhasa, one of the largest religious complexes in the world. Tibet's unique artistic culture is vividly presented in this compelling study.