The Great Stupa Library proudly houses Murals of Tibet, the landmark 2018 publication by Thomas Laird, renowned historian and photographer. It documents 120 large-scale ancient Tibetan murals. The book features hundreds of high-resolution photographs, some zoomed-in to highlight important details. Representing decades of research and a major digital archiving endeavor, Murals of Tibet safeguards cultural treasures that might otherwise have been lost forever.
This monumental project preserves an irreplaceable visual record of Tibetan Buddhist art, culture and history, offering an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Tibet’s spiritual and artistic traditions.
You can explore the story behind this landmark project through a series of interpretive videos, gaining insight into one of the world’s most comprehensive archives of Tibetan wall paintings. Whether you are an art lover, historian, Buddhist practitioner or simply curious about Tibet’s heritage, Murals of Tibet offers an unparalleled visual journey.
A curated selection of images from Murals of Tibet is currently on display in the Great Stupa Library foyer. These carefully chosen and described works provide visitors with direct access to the richness and complexity of Tibetan mural traditions. The exhibition is available during the Great Stupa visit, offering an opportunity to encounter this magnificent archive in person.
A research companion volume for Murals of Tibet is available for use within the Great Stupa Library during its opening hours – 11 am to 3 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
You are welcome to explore this extraordinary publication during your visit, however, the book is not available for external loan
