Under religious conservatism, Kathmandu valley fostered several unique art forms; one of which is the ritual-guided discipline of Paubha characterized by elegantly flowing lines and rich colors. Attributed as the originator of commercially more popular Tibetan style called Thanka, Paubha painting involves intricate patterns and well-controlled strokes demonstrating the artist's skill. 

Paubha is a form of scroll painting on specially prepared cotton medium with a mixture of saresh (buffalo glue) and sapeta (white clay). Dry shading is the technique unique to coloring style of Paubha which relies heavily on detailed outlining and bright and rich color palette.

Meaningful iconography and predefined details of forms and colors make Paubha not an easy art to master. Beyond traditional knowledge from ancient texts and one's master, the major qualifier for a Paubha painter's success is his devotion to the painted deity expected to reflect on the artwork with ease. Unless elegance of a deity's persona or focal strength of a Mandala is able to complement a divine ambience, the objectives are not met.

Paramsukha-Chakrasamvara Mandala

11th Century

Ratnasambhava

12th Century