Shamans

This illustrated book studies the images and ritual objects of shamanism, from ancient times to the present day. The author first explains what the word "shaman" means. He then sets out three ideas that run through shamanic life: the cosmos seen as alive with spirits, contact between different realities, and the care of both body and soul. Along the way it visits Mesolithic Germany, the Evenki of northern and central Asia, the Shang dynasty and today's neo-shamans in the West.

Why You Should Read?

• Discover what the author means by the word "shaman" before the book moves on to wider themes.
• Explore the symbolism of the adornments on a Siberian shaman's coat, as the book decodes them.
• Learn how the book links psychotropic plants and carved effigies to trance states, journeys and shamans turning into animals.
• Enjoy 450 color illustrations of ritual artifacts and visionary images, set beside a narrative text and close studies of key objects.