Rubin Museum of Art

• Art
• Asian
• History
• Religion

In many ways, this is the most important exhibition in the museum. Himalayan Art is unique and beautiful but draws on history, legends, traditions, and methods often unfamiliar to Western viewers. This exhibition walks you through the basics: the difference between Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, the meaning of the different postures and hand gestures, the common compositions of paintings. Time invested here pays off in the rest of the museum and through the city's other major collections of Himalayan Art.

• Art
• Asian
• Religion

This semi-permanent exhibition is the highlight of the Rubin. The Shrine room is a detailed representation of a private shrine in the household of devoted practitioners. Filled with elaborate scroll paintings, traditional objects, ritualistic instruments, and (simulated) candles, the installation invites users to experience the serenity of a place dedicated to personal mediation and quiet contemplation.

• Ancient
• Art
• Asian
• Religion

This exhibit is at the core of the Rubin Museum. The Rubin's collection is regularly reshuffled through this exhibition, giving you an overview of the breadth of the museum's holdings. The organization of the exhibit is roughly geographic, focusing on the different regions of Tibet, India, Kashmir, Nepal, and Mongolia. Many of the pieces date as far back as the 12th and 13th centuries. Start first at the *Gateway to Himalayan Art* exhibit to help understand the masterworks on display here.