Title
The Raven Crown: The Origins of Buddhist Monarchy in Bhutan,Used
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The hereditary monarchy of the Wangchuk dynasty was established in 1907 in the independent Himalayan state of Bhutan, thus introducing one of the world's most recent experiments in kingship. The new order quickly replaced a theocracy founded in the seventeenth century by the first of the 'Dharma Rajas', a lineage of reincarnating lamas known by the title of Shabdrung. The first king of the new dynasty, Ugyen Wangchuk (18621926), was a charismatic figure who came to power against a turbulent background of incessant and complex feuding. He adopted as the unique symbol of his authority a crown surmounted by the head of a raven. The bird represents a form of Mahakala, Bhutan's guardian deity. The prototype of the founding monarch's Raven Crown had first been devised as a battle helmet for his father, Jigme Namgyel (182581). Known as the Black Regent, he had worn it in bloody struggles against his many rivals within the country and against the British who tried, unsuccessfully, to subdue him. The story of the Wangchuk dynasty's rise and triumph moves from a picture of turmoil and chaos to one of relative peace and stability. In contrast with earlier published ac counts based solely on the colonial records of British India, here the narrative is founded on the Bhutanese chronicles which offer a new perspective and bring many new details to light. The ethnic and historical context is outlined before recounting the turbulent career of the Black Regent, followed by the lives and achievements of the first two kings. The book is copiously illustrated with rare historical photographs that have come to light in private and public collections in the United Kingdom. Most of these vivid images have never previously been published. They provide a lively depth and focus to the unfolding narrative.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'The Raven Crown'? A: 'The Raven Crown' explores the origins of the hereditary monarchy in Bhutan, focusing on the rise of the Wangchuk dynasty and its establishment in 1907.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The book is authored by Michael Aris, an expert on Bhutan's history and culture.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is available in a hardcover binding, which offers durability and a quality feel.
- Q: How many pages are in 'The Raven Crown'? A: 'The Raven Crown' consists of 152 pages, providing a concise yet informative read.
- Q: What historical context does the book provide? A: The book outlines the ethnic and historical context of Bhutan, particularly during the transition from a theocracy to a monarchy.
- Q: Are there illustrations included in the book? A: Yes, 'The Raven Crown' is copiously illustrated with rare historical photographs, many of which have never been published before.
- Q: When was 'The Raven Crown' published? A: 'The Raven Crown' was published on January 1, 1995.
- Q: What condition is the book in? A: The book is categorized as being in 'Very Good' condition, indicating it has been well-preserved.
- Q: What is the significance of the Raven Crown in Bhutanese history? A: The Raven Crown symbolizes the authority of the founding monarch, Ugyen Wangchuk, and is associated with Bhutan's guardian deity, Mahakala.
- Q: Does the book offer a new perspective on Bhutan's history? A: Yes, the narrative is based on Bhutanese chronicles, providing a fresh perspective compared to previous accounts that relied on colonial records.