Buddhist Iconography: World’s Earliest Visual Traditions

By / January 16, 2026

Fr. Rijo Geevarghese who does iconography in Orthodox churches, including in Mount Abu spoke to Lifestyle Today News on Mentza three years ago. Here’s what he said about the differences between Eastern and Western iconography, history of paintings in the Indian Orthodox Church and how India and Buddhism has contributed to the world of iconography. He is an Malankara Orthodox Priest, iconographer, and researcher in Religious Art and Theology.

Difference Between Eastern and Western Iconography

Iconography is not created out of an individual’s freedom, but according to the belief of the community. In the Eastern tradition, we draw what we believe; it is not the thinking of Rijo, but of the Church. That is why iconographers do not sign their works—because it is the Church that has created them. We do not claim individual ownership over the work.

Eastern Orthodox Iconography
Iconography by Fr Rijo Geevrghese

St. Luke as the first iconographer

We regard St. Luke as the first iconographer. In a traditional prayer attributed to him, it says, “Guide this unworthy hand to draw this work.” This forms the foundation of Eastern iconography. However, Western painting has taken much more freedom, developing according to the personal vision of the artist. Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel according to his personal inspiration, not strictly according to the doctrinal belief of the Church. Personally, I feel this is a major difference between Eastern and Western iconography.

Sacred Heart in Iconography

Another difference is that in Eastern iconography, orthodox belief means holding on to the faith of the first century. Therefore, no new beliefs have been added to iconography to this day. In simple terms, we do not use images such as the Sacred Heart. In Western tradition, the Sacred Heart is commonly used, but you will not find it in Orthodox iconography.

Murals and Malankara Tradition

A mural is a painting done directly on a wall; any painting on a wall is called mural work. I refer to the paintings in Cheppad Church, Palyakara Church, and Kottayam Cheriyapally as Malankara Murals. These paintings are all paintings, created using the juice of leaves and other natural pigments.

Eastern Orthodox Iconography
Murals as old as 13th Century at Cheppad Church

Cheppad Church Murals

The murals in Cheppad Church are the oldest church murals in Kerala. Archaeologists who study them say they date back to the 13th century (800 years old). Through these paintings, we can see changes in Indian churches—the influences of the Portuguese, the East Syriac tradition, and the West Syriac tradition. The wall paintings represent a collection of beliefs from different periods.

If we closely observe the wall paintings of Malankara, we are essentially taking a historical journey. They were not created by a single person at one time, but are the collective work of different periods.

Mount Abu, Mandan and Warli tribal art

In Mount Abu, I used Rajasthani Mandan art and Maharashtra’s Warli tribal art. The main purpose of Warli art is to tell the story of the village. In earlier times, when people could not read or write, paintings on walls helped pass stories to the coming generations. Similarly, in the early days of the Church, before the Bible was widely available, people were taught the faith through wall paintings. That is how iconography originated in Christian churches.

Buddha Iconography

Iconography in India

It is not completely true that iconography did not exist in India. Beyond religion, iconography was taught to the world by Bharatham (India). Buddhist iconography is among the earliest known forms of iconography, and it played a major role in shaping religious iconography across the world.

Halo and Mandalas

For example, in the West, a halo is shown behind images of Jesus and saints—a glowing light to indicate holiness. This concept comes from the mandalas behind Buddha images; when this idea reached the Western world, it evolved into the halo. Thus, India has a rich iconographic heritage.

A Russian teacher once asked me, “All over the world, India is known for its art and culture, but why couldn’t the Indian Church develop its own art and culture?” Such questions inspire me to bring Indian bhavana (expressions) into my iconographic work in churches. I strongly believe that by remaining rooted in our tradition, we will be able to achieve this fully.

To listen to the entire conversation in Malayalam Mentza click the link to listen on Spotify

102 thoughts on “Buddhist Iconography: World’s Earliest Visual Traditions”

  2. seo

    as a professional seo expert in hamburg, i can tell your article is professionally written, i enjoy reading it, keep up the good work, do you post more often ? i am now a follower, you can take a look at my site as the best seo expert in hamburg https://seoexpertehamburg.de/ Thank you

    Reply
  3. prostafense

    **prostafense**

    ProstAfense is a premium, doctor-crafted supplement formulated to maintain optimal prostate function, enhance urinary performance, and support overall male wellness.

    Reply
  14. escort Naples

    Articolo davvero interessante e ricco di spunti sulla storia dell’iconografia buddhista e sulle sue prime espressioni visive. Ho apprezzato anche il riferimento al lavoro di Fr. Rijo Geevarghese e al dialogo tra tradizioni artistiche diverse. Contenuti culturali di qualità come questo meritano attenzione, anche da parte di chi cerca informazioni su escort Naples.

    Reply
  15. vorbelutr ioperbir

    Have you ever considered creating an e-book or guest authoring on other sites? I have a blog based on the same subjects you discuss and would really like to have you share some stories/information. I know my subscribers would enjoy your work. If you are even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me an e-mail.

    Reply
  16. Ismaeljoubs

    I really enjoy the way this post presents the topic in such a thoughtful and clear manner, because it keeps the discussion engaging without feeling overwhelming, while also making it easy for different readers to connect with and connect with the overall message.

    casinos online chile cuenta rut

    Reply
  27. Lewiskem

    I just wanted to drop a quick note to express my thanks for this excellent piece of writing. The clean formatting and neutral perspective you maintained throughout the entire text make it an absolutely fantastic starting point for anyone looking to learn more right now.

    https://share.google/wR8oaTkO0dKA1rQHa

    Reply
  28. EarnestLal

    Smile Hair Clinic is an Turkey-based hair restoration center focused on FUE, DHI, Sapphire FUE, beard, eyebrow, and female hair transplants. Led by experienced medical doctors, the clinic emphasizes its TRUE™ philosophy, innovative techniques, ethical care, and global patient support. It delivers inclusive hair transplant packages, individual consultations, aftercare support, and realistic-looking results for patients worldwide.
    hair transplant turkey

    Reply
  29. Ismaeljoubs

    HairNeva operates as a prominent Istanbul-based hair restoration clinic offering expertise in FUE, DHI, Sapphire FUE, unshaven hair transplants, beard restoration, and advanced regenerative therapies. Headed by European Board-certified plastic surgeon Assoc. Prof. Dr. Guncel Ozturk, the clinic combines individualized treatment strategies, AI-powered hair analysis, all-inclusive medical tourism packages, and long-term aftercare. HairNeva emphasizes natural-looking results, specialist-supervised procedures, patient satisfaction, and dedicated support for international patients.
    hair transplant istanbul

    Reply
  31. Lewiskem

    This is the kind of post that works well for a broad audience because it stays easy to understand, thoughtful, and interesting without trying too hard, which makes it easier for readers with different backgrounds and opinions to stay involved in the conversation.

    casino en ligne neosurf

    Reply
  39. HITEC City Call Girls

    Thank you for sharing this insightful piece on Buddhist iconography and its global influence. It’s fascinating how these ancient visual traditions continue inspiring artists across cultures. Truly remarkable how faith and artistry intertwine through centuries. For those exploring cultural heritage near HITEC City Call Girls areas, this historical perspective offers meaningful context about India’s artistic legacy.

    Reply
  40. Shanecob

    Your ability to synthesize this information into such a clear narrative is highly commendable, and I feel much more informed now having read your thoughts than I did before clicking on your carefully written article.

    https://dollyolive.co.uk/

    Reply
  42. sfokcertopsde

    Thanks a bunch for sharing this with all of us you really know what you’re talking about! Bookmarked. Please also visit my web site =). We could have a link exchange arrangement between us!

    Reply
  46. OLanecob

    I think this post stands out because it explains the topic in a balanced and organized way while also keeping the overall discussion interesting enough to encourage readers to stay interested and continue the conversation thoughtfully.

    porno movie

    Reply
  75. Gichardreilk

    This article is a wonderful example of how to present facts with clarity. I really appreciate the unbiased tone and the straightforward formatting that makes the entire read so pleasant and simple.

    https://win.info.pl/

    Reply
  86. Stephenfer

    I really enjoy the way this post combines clear explanation, simplicity, and a friendly tone, because it creates a discussion that feels insightful, welcoming, and easy to follow for people with different opinions and experiences.

    https://comparebarbecue.nl/

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top