Jalasayana Vishnu Mandala Distemper on cloth Nepal

Acquired in the 1970s/1980s

Good overall condition. Color slightly darker than in catalogue illustration. Tiny needle marks along borders where object was removed from mounting. Minor water staining in upper right quadrant. Slight areas of rubbing throughout. Exhibited in temporary frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

With Vishnu at the centre of a lotus mandala accompanied by devi, Garuda, and Ananta, surrounded by petals with twelve manifestations with shakti, all encircled by the coils of Ananta, with narrative and mythical scenes, Ganesha, Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu and Kartikeya above and scenes of ritual and portraits of donors below.

Although Jalasayana Vishnu has iconic importance in Nepal, few painted mandalas of this subject survive. The blue reclining Vishnu depicted in worship in the lower registers of the painting probably represents the massive seventh century stone image at Budhanilkantha in the Kathmandu Valley.