Newar window

Courtyard of Kumari House, Kathmandu

Newār window refers to the elaborately carved wooden window which is the distinguishing feature of traditional Nepalese architecture.[1] The ornate windows have been described as a symbol of Newar culture and artistry.[2] The level of design and carving of the Newar window reached its peak in the mid-18th century. They are found on palaces, private residences and sacred houses across Nepal Mandala.[3]

The lintel, sill and jamb are ornamented with figures of deities, mythical beings, dragons, peacocks, auspicious jars and other elements. The window is surmounted by ritual parasols. Traditional Newar houses are usually of four stories and built of brick. Different types of windows are used on each floor according to their function.[4]

Newar windows and bare-brick facade in the traditional style are making a comeback as an architectural trend due to the tourism industry and growing heritage awareness.[5]

Types of windows

Pāsukhā Jhyā, Yatkha Baha, Kathmandu

Among the many window designs, the following are the most common.

Famous windows

Peacock Window, Bhaktapur

A number of traditional carved windows in the Kathmandu Valley are celebrated for their uniqueness.

Gallery

References

  1. Lieberman, Marcia R. (9 April 1995). "The Artistry of the Newars". The New York Times. Retrieved 12 June 2013.
  2. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 86.
  3. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 82.
  4. Macdonald, A.W. and Stahl, Anne Vergati (1979) Newar Art: Nepalese Art during the Malla Period. New Delhi: Vikas Publishing House. Page 114.
  5. "Wood Carvings of the Valley: A cut above the others". Nepal Traveller. 2007. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  6. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 86.
  7. Hutt, Michael et al. (1994) Nepal: A Guide to the Art and Architecture of the Kathmandu Valley. Kiscadale Publications. ISBN 1-870838-76-9. Page 50.
  8. Joshi, Chandra Bahadur (1990) Kathmandu Upatyakaka Kalatmak Jhyalharu (Artistic Windows of the Kathmandu Valley). Kathmandu: Royal Nepal Academy. Page 9.
  9. Rastriya Samachar Samiti (19 June 2012). "Peacock window in peril". The Himalayan Times. Retrieved 8 August 2012.
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