This painting is in typical newari style where the Buddha of compassion Avaloketesvara is depicted with multiple hand gestures (ten hands). Avalokitesvara is a highly worshiped deity in both Nepal and Tibet as the Buddha of compassion. He is shown in elegantly dancing (Sanskrit: Nrtya) attitude.
The principal form of religious painting in Nepal consists of images of deities known as "paubhas". Similar to thangkas, they are much rarer. The paubha is the precursor of Tibetan thangka painting in Nepal. Intricate floral decoration may be regarded as a hallmark of Nepali paubhas. Furthermore strong, contrasting colours are a typical characteristic for this kind of painting. The influence of Tibetan painting also shows in treatment of figures and landscapes and, sometimes, in the choice of subject as well.
Newari paintings are typical religious paintings by newari painters of Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu became centre of art and literature from 1200 CE after traditions disappeared from India due to Mughal invasion. The city remained the centre of Buddhist and Brahmanic arts and literature until Tibet, China and Mongolia developed its own tradition.
Today Newari and Tamang are the two major tribes that paint religious paintings, with the Tamang focusing on Tibetan style thangkas. Newari paintings are representation of already lost Indian style of paintings.