Tibetan art is one of the last great artistic traditions to become known in the West. Like most European medieval art, it was primarily commissioned for religious purposes. In an expanded edition of a 1983 catalog, Pal combines the religious and artistic significance of the art while also placing it in historical context. The history of Tibetan thanka painting is well represented, and 65 new works have been added to the current edition. Recommended for large art collections and libraries emphasizing Asian studies.