previous image | Marvels of the Malla Period main exhibition | next image

The Savior Amoghapasha Avalokiteshvara
Made in Nepal
Malla Period (1200-1769), Late 13th to early 14th century
Artist/maker unknown, Nepal, Newar culture
Colors on cloth
26 5/8 x 22 1/4 inches (67.6 x 56.5 cm)
Gift of Stella Kramrisch, 1977

This painting reveals the international character of early Malla period art. The white-walled palace with two remaining turrets (originally there were five before the top was cropped) reflects Pala period architecture of ninth- through twelfth-century northern India. The central deity, Amoghapasha, wears a necklace with red and gold swags. This style of necklace became popular in China following a visit by the Newar artist Anige (1243-1306), who greatly impressed Kublai Khan, founder of the Chinese Yuan dynasty (1271-1368). The lower registers show small houses that reflect Nepal's own architecture and illustrate various Buddhist stories, auspicious symbols, and Newar ritual worship.

Click here to view full image (1801 × 2100 pixels, 1,158 KB)


all text & images © The Philadelphia Museum of Art

previous image | Marvels of the Malla Period main exhibition | next image