Nepal: A complex lock on a temple door covered in kumkuma powder, Patan, Kathmandu Valley (1998)

For much of the medieval era, Patan was the most important city of Nepal. During the Licchavi, Thakuri and early Malla periods, the city accumulated a wealth of art, architecture and sculpture.

With the division of the Kathmandu Valley, in 1482, Patan fell to Yaksha Malla’s daughter Dharmavati who ruled together with her brother Ratna Malla of Kathmandu. After Ratna Malla’s death, the ensuing kings gradually lost control over the city, which instead came to be administered by members of seven feudal families. These influential families recognised, at least in theory, the sovereignty of the king, but were powerful enough to run the city on their own terms.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

Chaweewan Chuchuay

Credit:

Pictures From Asia