ABSTRACT
The monuments found at Alchi (circa.10th-11th CE), a monastic complex in Central Ladakh come across as a melting pot in which various traditions and styles are seen amalgamating to produce a unique and vibrant art form. Being at the junction of various cultures Alchi combines artistic traditions from Indian plains, Kashmir valley and local Ladakhi culture. King Yeshe-Od (A.D.10th-11th), the king of Guge state in Western Tibet residing at Tholing seems to have been dissatisfied with the elementary Buddhism practiced in the area. He decided to send some twenty one students to Kashmir and other parts of India to learn new theories of Buddhism. The most prominent among these students was Rinchen-bzang-po (958–1055A.D.) who got thoroughly educated in Sanskrit and philosophy. He then tirelessly translated them for the benefit of his people. xxviiRinchen’s activity did not stop there. He is known to have returned back with thirty two Kashmiri artists and started an ambitious project of constructing some 108 temples. Interestingly of the temples which we know today most fall on the route between Guge to Srinagar. The most notable ones are at Alchi, Sani in Zanskar, Tabo in Spiti, Tholing, Mangnang, and Nythang. The chapter focuses on the Alchi paintings. The numerous and variegated influences from various cultures deciphered at Alchi talks about a vibrant economic and artistic exchanges taking place in the region.
