Kathmandu, Nepal
Dated by inscription 1775
Kathmandu, Nepal
Dated by inscription 1775
This exquisitely crafted gilded répoussé plaque depicts a special birthday celebration common to the Kathmandu Valley known as the Chariot Ritual. It is practiced by both Hindus and Buddhists when an elder reaches the age of seventy-seven. The festivities include the elder riding through the city on a chariot accompanied by the performance of various religious services in front of a sacred stupa.To commemorate the birthday, Buddhists are also required to commission the construction of a stupa. However, if unable to build a full-size stupa, the family can sponsor a small three-dimensional or hammered metal sculpture or a painting of a stupa, of which this is an example. The presence of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, at middle left and a monkey at the bottom left identify this stupa as likely representing a specific site, the famous Swayambhu Stupa of Kathmandu. A dedication inscription along the base dates the work to 1776.
Prescribed practices that carry symbolic meaning and value within a specific tradition and are intended to attain a desired outcome. Rituals are usually done as part of a ceremony or regular routine.
Buddhism teaches that all life is sacred and should be respected, as all sentient beings have the potential to attain enlightenment. This notion encourages a positive view and compassion for others.
Stupas were originally burial mounds housing relics of Buddha, and now take many forms, from small votives to large structures, and contain relics or other sacred objects.
The Himalayan kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were significant centers of Buddhist culture. Nepalese kings, Buddhist institutions, and ordinary people patronized the vibrant art guilds. The artistic traditions of the regions are well-known in Tibetan areas and beyond, and Newar artists have always been in high demand throughout Tibetan regions and Inner Asia.
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