Ushnishavijaya and Celebration of Old Age

Ushnishavijaya and Celebration of Old Age (Jyatha Janko), 19th century (Kathmandu Valley, Nepal), pigment on cloth, 46-3/8 x 35-1/8 x 2-1/4 inches (Rubin Museum of Art, New York City)
A conversation with Dr. Elena Pakhoutova, Senior Curator Himalayan Art at the Rubin Museum of Art and Dr. Steven Zucker
Rubin Museum senior curator Dr. Elena Pakhoutova and Smarthistory’s Dr. Steven Zucker examine a painting that celebrates old age. The Newars-one of the traditional inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal-hold rituals for elders who reach the age of 77 years, 7 months, and 7 weeks. Watch to find out how this painting represents the significance of this specific age.
The Rubin Museum of Art has teamed up with Smarthistory to bring you an ‘up-close’ look at select objects from the Rubin’s preeminent collection of Himalayan art. Featuring conversations with senior curators and close-looking at art, this video series is an accessible introduction to the art and material culture of the Tibetan, Himalayan, and Inner Asian regions. Learn about the living traditions and art-making practices of the Himalayas from the past to today.
Learn more about this topic on Project Himalayan Art, a resource from the Rubin for learning about Himalayan, Tibetan, and Inner Asian art and cultures:
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About the Rubin
The Rubin is a global museum dedicated to sharing Himalayan art through a dynamic digital platform, participatory experiences, exhibitions, and partnerships. Inspired and informed by Himalayan art, the Rubin invites people to contemplate the human experience and deepen connections with the world around them in order to expand awareness, enhance well-being, and cultivate compassion.
View the Himalayan Art Up Close series: / playlist
Subscribe to the Rubin Museum KZbin channel: / @rubinmuseum

[@oltedders]

I've just turned 75 a few days ago. Now I have something (else) to look forward to.

[@smarthistory-art-history]

Happy 75th!

[@oltedders]

@@smarthistory-art-history Still here!

[@fsuannes]

Really love this series focused on the Himalayas. I've got a copy of this in my home!

[@tym7267]

would like to see more Buddhist artpieces!

[@smarthistory-art-history]

We will be publishing five more videos made with curators at the Rubin Museum of Art on Buddhist art over the next week or so. In addition, you can find all of our resources on the Smarthistory website. Here is what a search for Buddhism offers: smarthistory.org/?s=Buddhism

[@wardstahmer7857]

I calculated my date and it turns out to be January 1, 2028. I told my daughter to either give me a call or raise a glass. She can skip the chariot.

[@CynthiaPereira-g1d]

If only the elderly in the West were given a modicum of this adulation/respect

[@Sasha0927]

What an intriguing piece! I have a hot minute before this celebration takes place, if it ever does, so there's that vague feeling of tension-laden-wonder about that, lol. I now know what a stupa is, +5 EXP. 🌈 This was very informative, but I have to wonder what all the other birthday celebrations are like until this blowout happens.

[@johnmartlew5897]

How do you calculate? What calendar did they use?