CONTESTED SIGNIFICANCE: TIBETAN BUDDHIST SACRED OBJECTS IN U.S. MUSEUMS
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Authors
Sandys, Eleanor
Issue Date
2015
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This project builds on existing literature related to Tibetan Buddhist sacred objects and Tibetan involvement in U.S. museums. It asks the question: how and why are Tibetan Buddhists involved in the care and display of sacred objects in U.S. museums? In addition to an extensive literature review, this study is informed by two methodologies. First, I conducted case studies at the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture and the Rubin Museum of Art. Second, I interviewed museum professionals at museums with collections of Tibetan objects and Tibetans in the US who are associated with a cultural preservation organization. The research project's aims are fourfold: (1) to determine the state of the U.S. museum field in terms of Tibetan Buddhist involvement in the care and display of sacred objects; (2) to consider the relevance of sacred objects in Western museum collections to Tibetans in exile in the US; (3) to explore museum approaches to sacred objects; and (4) to address politics engendered by museums' relationships with Tibetans.