Museum of Oriental Art
The museum is housed in a 17th century residence and consists of various sections, covering the art of ancient China, Japan, India, the Himalayas and Islamic countries.
The main thread that links the exhibits of the museum is the conception and development of Buddhism.
One of the most valuable parts of the museum’s collection relates to the art of Gandhara, which is directly connected to the origin of Buddhism centuries ago.
Gandhara initially referred to an ancient kingdom, stretching from present-day eastern Afghanistan to the northwest of Pakistan.
The Gandhara School of art flourished in the north-west of India and the east of Afghanistan between the I century BC and VII century AC.
Between the VI and V centuries BC, during the rule of its Persian dynasty, Gandhara was impregnated with Indian and Mediterranean influences concerning both art and culture.
That is why Gandhara’s art is considered to be a merge of civilizations.
Statues of Buddha, representations of Indian Gods, Samurai’s arms, books of Tibetan monks, ancient Japanese decorations and many other creations will amaze not only specialists but also tourists willing to be transported to other eras.
When making a tour downtown Turin it is always a welcome idea stopping in this surprising museum for a couple of hours, it does take you to other ages!
