Indian Epigraphy: A Guide to the Study of Inscriptions in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and the other Indo-Aryan Languages (South Asia Research) 1st Edition

Salomon is a well known epigraphist and this is subsequently and authoritative guide to Indian scripts and their development. The only other relevant and equivalent book on the subject is probably 60 years old by Sircar. Highly recommended to anyone interested in development of South Asian scripts.

Here is a guide to writing and scripts in India, the languages of Indic inscriptions, a survey of inscriptions, methods of epigraphic study and even a history of Indian epigraphic studies. In addition there is a bibliographic survey and a selection of typical inscriptions. This is the place to start when dealing with Indian inscriptions. The style is clear and there are plenty of references to previous studies.

Salomon does an admirable job introducing the vast field of epigraphy in the Indo-Aryan languages. There is much in the book which a beginner can follow but there is also a lot for the more knowledgeable. The importance and use of epigraphy in the study of ancient India is clearly described. This book whetted my appetite to learn more about Indian epigraphy.

Very good book on this topic