Sacred Symbols of Nepal Mythical Creatures

Contents: 1. Background and introduction. 2. Monsoon culture. 3. Indianisation in the Kathmandu Valley brings syncretisation of religious practices. 4. Kathmandu Valley: land of Nagas and Garudas. 5. Torana. 6. Side panels of doorways and thrones. 7. Throne of the Buddhas. 8. Vahana (Vehicles). 9. Guardians. 10. Other images of animals found in the valley. Annexures. Bibliography. 

The intention behind this little book is to introduce the world of the mythical creatures which are symbols used in the sacred arts of Nepal and the Kathmandu Valley. It is not designed as an academic study of these animals but is a collection of sketches and drawings of the animals that intrigued me, and needed explanation as I was learning to paint Tangkas and Paubas in Nepal. 

Sources consulted include electronic resources, books, academic papers, museum labels, pundits, gurus, teachers and friends. I thank them all for their contribution to the written information which provides a simple framework of myths, legends, stories and explanations.

The illustrations are sketches drawn from the formal paintings, wood, stone, brick carvings and metal work which abound in every region of Nepal. 

The viewer needs to look closely at the creatures, not only identifying their overall form. The details open another world which illustrates the stories, myths, legends and rituals of Nepali life of which these animals are an intrinsic part. (jacket)