Icons of Indra in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: The Newarization of an Indian Deity
摘要
The iconographic evolution of the god Indra in Nepal is remarkable in every respect. While images of Indra gradually vanished from the Indian subcontinent starting in the twelfth century, the Kathmandu Valley—the heart of Newar culture—not only preserved the deity but developed distinct characteristics and novel representations for him. This article examines the unique qualities of Nepalese Indra statuary (wood, metal, and stone), demonstrating how these enduring iconographic models are inextricably linked to Indrajātrā, the annual royal festival. To contextualize these artistic forms, the study explores the local myths underpinning the festival, specifically highlighting the significant role of Newar Buddhism and the identification of Vasundharā as Indra’s mother. The analysis considers both “high art” statuary and more popular imagery that portrays Indra as a phallic deity associated with fertility and death. Ultimately, the article advocates for a multidisciplinary approach that integrates art history with ethnography to fully grasp the complexities of Newar religious art.