Image title: Struts (Tudal)

This photo depicts a variety of wooden Struts (also known as Tudal, Nilampu or Twanashi) often seen supporting the roof of Newari style temples (viharas) in Nepal.

Struts which seem to be looking graciously down towards the visiting devotees below and supporting the roof above, are the most artistic pieces of wood carving seen in the temples and viharas in Nepal. In Newari, the struts are called Nilampu/Twanashi or Tudals. These units collectively support the roof above through the horizontal beams of the sloping roof of the temple structure. Moreover, struts represent the artistic beauty and religious motifs in various manifestations of both male and female deities. The struts portray various deities, human devotees and various forms of erotic arts.

Struts on the comers generally known as Kunsal are larger in size compared to others where sarduls or viyalas are portrayed. This is mainly because on this comer two roof-ends meet and only larger struts can bear the burden of the roofs above.

Gallery information:

This photo is from the collection of various artworks from Nepal, including the wood work found at Kumari Ghar, a special home/temple for the dwelling of Kumari at Basantapur.—The National Museum of Nepal (Rashtriya Museum) houses a variety of sculptures, carvings, statues, paintings and other objects grouped according to the major religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism.