Nepalese sculpture reached its zenith in the Lichchhavi period; stone, copper and bronze images from this period show round faces with slanted eyes. While attention was also given to details, the main feature of this period is presentation of simplicity. The use of clothes and ornaments was quite restrained: many Hindu deities, for example are shown wearing only a dhoti (skirt like lower garment). Buddhist deities were carved to show them wearing long Sanghatis (a long saffron colored robe that the Buddhists wear; hanging from the shoulders). Lichchhavi period idols were so beautifully executed that it is not possible to find one specimen with a chiseled mark. Some of the best examples of Lichchhavi art are the images of Sleeping Vishnu in Budhanilkantha, located eight km north of Katmandu; and the Vishnu Vikrant or Dwarf Incarnation found near Lazimpat in Katmandu. In addition, there are some remarkable sculptures from Lichchhavi period (5th – 8th Century) at Changu Narayan. The sculptural arts of 6th – 14th and from early Malla period (11th – 14th century) comprise equally important art treasures of Nepal.

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