c. 1550-1650

Embroidered Band

This textile shows two enthroned lovers reclining beneath a canopy and feeding each other betel nut- a digestive aid believed to be an aphrodisiac. Dancing girls perform for the couple's pleasure as warriors brandishing swords guard their privacy. The striped skirts of the men and women reflect Malla period clothing. The undulating, multicolored tree trunks and flowers floating in midair (also found in the manuscripts in this gallery) are artistic tropes distinct to the Malla period. Even the needlework technique and the crosses ornamenting the figures' costumes are believed to be unique to early Nepalese textiles.