Padmapāni Lokeshwara 2018
Stone color and gold on Cotton-canvas (Permanent collection of Museum of nepali art, Nepal)
47 1/4 " x 31 1/2" I 120cm X 80Cm
Padmapani Lokeshwara is revered as a protector and observer deity of Kathmandu Valley. The annual chariot festival in Lalitpur, held in his honor, is among the most celebrated local traditions, symbolizing blessings for rain, harvest, and prosperity.
In this paubha, the central figure of Padmapani Lokeshwara is surrounded by the five Dhyani Buddhas of Vajrayana Buddhism, Arya Tara, and tutelary deities Vajra-pani and Khadga-pani, arranged in an unorthodox yet balanced composition. The calm and benevolent expression of the main figure commands the viewer’s attention, while the stupa positioned at the top serves as the visual pinnacle of the piece. The vibrant color palette reflects the artist’s deep appreciation for a rich spectrum of hues.
The standing figure of Padmapani Lokeshwara exhibits anatomically precise proportions reminiscent of modern human form. The deity’s posture suggests fluid motion, and although the image remains still, the artist’s use of graceful lines and curves imbues the painting with a dynamic sense of movement and vitality.