Book Cover with Exterior Carvings of Trailokyavijaya, Sitapatra, and Ganapati

Currently not on view

Book Cover with Exterior Carvings of Trailokyavijaya, Sitapatra, and Ganapati

c. 18th century

Artist/maker unknown, Nepalese

The figures in this carved and painted book cover were painted to imitate gold statues. The three figures are Trailokyavijaya (Conqueror of the Three Worlds), Sitapatra (She Who Shelters with a White Parasol), and the elephant-headed Ganesha. Trailokyavijaya protects devotees from the threats from the sky, earth, and underworld. Sitapatra guards against natural disasters such as fires, floods, and earthquakes. Ganesha, a particularly popular deity in Newar Buddhism, is frequently worshiped just before reading a sacred text to remove obstacles that hinder enlightenment. The original text once contained in this book most likely invoked these deities.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Book Cover with Exterior Carvings of Trailokyavijaya, Sitapatra, and Ganapati

Date:

c. 18th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Nepalese

Medium:

Wood with pigment and gold

Dimensions:

2 13/16 x 7 1/4 x 3/4 inches (7.1 x 18.4 x 1.9 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

Gift of Stella Kramrisch, 1960

Accession Number:

1960-160-1

Geography:

Made in Nepal, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Malla Dynasty (1200-1769)

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Currently not on view