The Himalayan mountains separate the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau.
since the 7th century
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Wangguli and five additional Newar artists, Four Mandalas of the Vajravali Cycle
Each perfectly geometric, these mandalas are a graphic representation of the Buddhist conception of the cosmos.
Stories of Previous Lives of the Buddha (Jataka)
The painted tales of the Buddha's former lives are meant to inspire the pursuit of a more conscious and meritorious life.
Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room (Kagyu tradition iteration)
There are many traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, and this Shrine Room represents the Kagyu.
Choying Dorje (attributed), Green Tara
A goddess of compassion, Tara is one of the most popular deities in Tibetan Buddhism and across the Himalayas.
Mountain God Kula Khari
Depicted as a Tibetan warrior, the god Kula Khari protects the land and Buddhist faith.
Durga Killing the Buffalo Demon (Durga Mahisasuramardini)
This gilded sculpture tells the story of how the goddess Durga brought order to the universe.
Situ Panchen
Scholar Situ Panchen is portrayed in a long lineage of transmitters of the Karma Kagyu Buddhist tradition.
Handheld Prayer Wheel
Filled with scrolls of Buddhist mantras, this prayer wheel boosts the merit of its user.
Lobsang Drubjam Tsering, Medicine Buddha Palace
Filled with detailed illustrations of figures, buildings, and medicinal plants, this painting is meant to instruct medical students in Tibet.
The Fifth Dalai Lama Ngawang Lobzang Gyatso (1617–1682) with Previous Incarnations
Delicate red lines stand out against the shimmering golden surface of this painting of the Fifth Dalai Lama.
Ushnishavijaya and Celebration of Old Age (Jyatha Janko)
One of the ways that Newar culture celebrates elders is through this specially commissioned painting.
Panjaranatha Mahakala
With sharp fangs and hair of flames, the Buddhist deity Mahakala is invoked for military and political success.
