The
oldest stone image found in Nepal and housed in
the National Museum, Swayambhu, is that of the Yaksha
Bodhisattva from to the first century AD. Highly
skilled and capable artisans in Nepal today continue
to use techniques and tools unchanged over the centuries.
A surge in the involvement of youth, particularly
the Tamangs and the Newars has assured that the
art of traditional stone carving will survive and
even grow better over time. Problems with stone
quarries and lack of interest among the Nepalese
rulers due to the heavy and hard-to-move nature
of stone had at one time almost wiped out this art
practice. At this time stone workers enjoy increased
interest among Nepalese buyers and the renovation
and reconstruction of temples, stupas and other
heritage sites. How the artist shapes the stone
as well as the life that the work requires are reported.
Many interviews, months of research and study supported
by photo essays and a collectibles section focusing
on stonework art forms have gone into the creation
of this art section that will put before you its
history, present, and future outlook.
COLLECTIBLES