George E. Hibbard (1924–1991) was a Saint Louis-born American art collector, and expert on Tibetan art and culture. Saint Louis Art Museum Archives
Despite his expertise on Tibet, he never actually went there because of Chinese government restrictions. However, much of Tibetan culture can be observed in the immediate border areas of India and Nepal.John Burroughs School Newsletter
Hibbard's collection consisted of Thankas (meditation scrolls) and bronze figures dating back to the 16th century.The Denver Clarion (1972-02-14)
Hibbard befriended the eldest brother of the Dalai Lama, Thubten Norbu, and traveled with him to India, where he was allowed in temples that would have been off-limits had it not been for his escort.
Hibbard gave lectures and presented papers on his field of study at Washington University in St. Louis, Harvard, University of Michigan, University of Denver, Indiana University, YaleYale Weekly Calendar (1974-04-01 through 1974-04-08) the International Congress of Orientalists, the National Convention of the Oriental Society, and the Midwest Conference on Asian Studies.Denver Post (1972)
He joined the United States Tibet Society and worked diligently to provide assistance to Tibetan refugees.
Footnotes
References The Denver Clarion (1972-02-14), "Tibetan Art Lecture" Denver Post (1972-02-14), "Art and the People of Tibet" John Burroughs School Newsletter (1972-01-21), "Alumnus Speaks on Tibet" Saint Louis Art Museum Archival record, retrieved on 2007-07-12 Yale Weekly Calendar (1974-04-01 through 1974-04-08)