Newar window

Courtyard of Kumari House, Kathmandu

Newār window refers to the elaborately carved wooden window which is the distinguishing feature of traditional Nepalese architecture.^[1] The ornate windows have been described as a symbol of Newar culture and artistry.^[2] The level of design and carving of the Newar window reached its peak in the mid-18th century. They are found on palaces, private residences and sacred houses across Nepal Mandala.^[3]

The lintel, sill and jamb are ornamented with figures of deities, mythical beings, dragons, peacocks, auspicious jars and other elements. The window is surmounted by ritual parasols. Traditional Newar houses are usually of four stories and built of brick. Different types of windows are used on each floor according to their function.^[4]

Newar windows and bare-brick facade in the traditional style are making a comeback as an architectural trend due to the tourism industry and growing heritage awareness.^[5]

Types of windows

Pāsukhā Jhyā, Yatkha Baha, Kathmandu

Among the many window designs, the following are the most common.

• Sanjhyā (Devanagari: सँझ्या:) is a projecting bay window and the classic Newar window. A typical Sanjhyā consists of three units and is located in the center of a facade. The shutter consists of a lattice and opens upwards. It is usually located on the third floor.^[6][7]
• Tikijhyā (तिकिझ्या:) is a lattice window and the most common window in traditional architecture. It is located on the second floor. The window allows light and air to enter the room but does not permit a passerby to see inside.
• Gājhyā (गा:झ्या:) is a projecting window located under a roof.
• Pāsukhā Jhyā (पासुखा झ्या:) is a small window with five units symbolizing the Pancha Buddha (Five Buddhas). It is mostly found on the shrine house of monasteries.^[8]

Famous windows

Peacock Window, Bhaktapur

A number of traditional carved windows in the Kathmandu Valley are celebrated for their uniqueness.

• Desay Madu Jhya (देसय मदु झ्या:), set in a house in Kathmandu, means "the only window of its kind in the country".
• Lunjhyā (लुँझ्याः) at Patan Durbar, Patan is a gilded window. The name means "golden window".
• Mhaykhā Jhyā (म्हयखाझ्याः) at Bhaktapur means "peacock window" and depicts a fantailed peacock.^[9]

Gallery

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  Sanjhyā, Kindo Baha, Kathmandu
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  Tikijhyā, Patan Durbar
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  Gājhyā, Dhalasikwa Baha, Kathmandu
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  Sacred house, Kathmandu
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  Kathmandu Durbar Square
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  Temple square, Dhulikhel
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  Ancient palace, Dolakha
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  Desay Madu Jhyā, Kathmandu

References

1. Lieberman, Marcia R. (9 April 1995). "The Artistry of the Newars". The New York Times. Retrieved 12 June 2013.
2. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 86.
3. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 82.
4. Macdonald, A.W. and Stahl, Anne Vergati (1979) Newar Art: Nepalese Art during the Malla Period. New Delhi: Vikas Publishing House. Page 114.
5. "Wood Carvings of the Valley: A cut above the others". Nepal Traveller. 2007. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
6. Lehrman, Jonas (July–August 1984). "The Newar Window". Arts of Asia. Page 86.
7. Hutt, Michael et al. (1994) Nepal: A Guide to the Art and Architecture of the Kathmandu Valley. Kiscadale Publications. ISBN 1-870838-76-9. Page 50.
8. Joshi, Chandra Bahadur (1990) Kathmandu Upatyakaka Kalatmak Jhyalharu (Artistic Windows of the Kathmandu Valley). Kathmandu: Royal Nepal Academy. Page 9.
9. Rastriya Samachar Samiti (19 June 2012). "Peacock window in peril". The Himalayan Times. Retrieved 8 August 2012.