The interaction of Buddhism and Hinduism makes the art of the Kathmandu Valley a powerful fusion of ideas, mythologies, and symbolic depictions. The Newar community is particularly well-known for its blending of Hindu and Buddhist ideas. For example, the Newars adopted the Hindu caste system during the Malla period, which gave rise to a Vajracharya family priest tradition. Newar religion therefore was past down through family lineages without the need of a monastic tradition. These priests perform the necessary daily rites for the Newar community.

Buddhism has existed within the Kathmandu Valley for more than two thousand years. Traditionally the religion of the Newar people, the Buddhist community of the valley is also composed of ethnic groups from other regions of Nepal such as Sherpas, Tamangs, and Tibetans. As the original inhabitants of the valley, the Newars have imparted a rich history to the region, complete with distinct mythologies and accompanying imagery.

Buddha Shakyamuni
Nepal; 13th century
Gilt copper alloy with inlay
Rubin Museum of Art
C2006.24.1 (HAR 65687)

Vajrapani
Nepal; 13th c.
Gilt copper
(HAR 65571)

Vajrasattva
The Lord of 100 Buddha Families
Nepal; 14th century
Gilt copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2005.16.10 (HAR 65432)

Vasudhara
Goddess of Abundance
Nepal; ca. 13th century
Metal
Rubin Museum of Art
C2007.23.1 (HAR 65791)

Yogambara and Jnana Dakini
Yogi of the Sky and Wisdom Goddess
Nepal; Early Malla (1200-1481), ca. 15th century
Gilt copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2005.16.42 (HAR 65465)

Namasangiti Manjushri
The Bodhisattva of Wisdom
Nepal; 18th century
Gilt alloy; répoussé
Rubin Museum of Art
C2006.66.60 (HAR 700069)

Manjushri
The Bodhisattva of Wisdom
Tibet; 15th century
Copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2006.23.2 (HAR 65656)

Manjushri
Nepal or Tibet, ca. 15th c.
Cast bronze
(HAR 65656)

Vajradhara
The Primordial Buddha
Nepal; 15th century
Gilt copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2005.16.43 (HAR 65466)

Vajradhara
The Primordial Buddha
Nepal; 14th century
Gilt copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2005.16.9 (HAR 65431)

Padmapani Avalokiteshvara
Holder of the Lotus
Nepal; 13th century
Gilt copper alloy
Rubin Museum of Art
C2005.16.8 (HAR 65430)

"From the Lands of the Gods" Arts of the Kathmandu Valley @ the Rubin Museum of Art, New York.  March 14 – November 10, 2008