The dazzling images of Tibetan Buddhist art are characterized by a wide variety of subject matter, complex forms, and precision workmanship. These exquisite images give ample expression to the artistic genius and religious aspirations of both Tibet and Mongolia, as well as their long-term artistic contact with China.

Yarlung dynasty (7th–9th centuries AD)

Buddhism was introduced into Tibet during the Yarlung dynasty and enjoyed royal patronage until it was suppressed by Langdarma, the last king of the dynasty. Known as the “first diffusion of Buddhism,” during this period of over two centuries Tibetan Buddhist art was heavily influenced by the artistic trends then current in India, Nepal, Swat, Kashmir, Khotan, and China.

The period of disunity (9th–13th centuries AD)

From the collapse of the Yarlung dynasty until Tibetan reunification in the 13th century under the Mongols, Tibetan Buddhist art continued to absorb outside influences, at the same time integrating local Tibetan elements. During this period different artistic styles emerged in different regions of Tibet in accordance with the prevailing outside influence, and the artwork thus produced became one of the most distinctive features of Tibetan culture.

Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)

The emperors of the Mongolian Yuan dynasty were followers of Tibetan Buddhism and gave much impetus to the development of its artwork. With the political unification under the Yuan dynasty, outside influence on the art of Tibet was limited to that coming from Nepal and China, leading to a transitional period characterized by the melding of the styles of Tibet, Nepal, and China.

Ming dynasty (1368–1644)

The emperors of the Ming dynasty also patronized Tibetan Buddhism, and it was during this era that Tibetan Buddhist art reached its apogee. The Tibetan artisans of the time succeeded in instituting a mode of artistic expression based on the flawless integration of Tibetan aesthetic elements with the artistic influences which continued to enter Tibet from India, Nepal, and China.

Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

The rulers of the Qing dynasty continued the tradition of imperial patronage of Tibetan Buddhism, and during this period Tibetan Buddhist art was characterized by realism and an emphasis on the glories of the past. Also during this era, the aesthetic tastes and artistic techniques of different regions resulted in the creation of various regional styles. However, due to the prevailing artistic influences of the time, although of high-quality workmanship, the images produced tended to be rigid, overly stylized, and of a lower aesthetic standard.