The workmanship of Newar artists from the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal was and is cherished throughout the Himalayas. The artistic traditions of Nepal and Tibet have long been in continuous exchange. Contact with Nepalese artisans was particularly strong prior to 1500 in the central Tibetan region of Tsang, immediately north of Nepal.
This section of the exhibition assembles objects from Nepal and the wider Tsang region of Central Tibet. Nepalese aesthetics and artistic techniques were particularly prominent in the early art of the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism, which was politically dominant in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries and whose main monasteries are in this region. Tibetans later recognized the common Nepalese idiom in their art by classifying these works as expressions of the Nepalese Style (Beri).
Select each work to learn more.
Nepal
13th - 14th century
Avalokiteshvara is one of the most popular deities in Nepal, where 108 forms of him are known. In his simplest form, extending his right hand in the gesture of giving and holding the stalk of a lotus (now broken) in his left, he is often called Padmapani, or Lotus-in-Hand.
Metal sculpture figures from Nepal share a number of characteristic features, such as a gentle smile and hawk-like nose. This sculpture is remarkable for its simplicity of line, graceful proportions, and elegant jewelry. The subtle modeling of the body contrasts with the voluminous and pointed ends of the bodhisattva’s clothing and the large, slim- petaled lotus blossom over his shoulder. The reddish tone of the metal, seen where the gilding has worn away, indicates a high copper content, which is typical of Nepalese sculpture.
Get the latest news and stories from the Rubin, plus occasional information on how to support our work.