Die Legende vom Prinzen Vishvantara: Grenzenlose Freigebigkeit

Museum für Asiatische Kunst, Schloßplatz 1, 10178, Berlin

September 24, 2025 – December 31, 2027

As part of the ‘Family’ theme cluster, a new presentation has been installed in the Himalayan Gallery around a 10-metre-long magnificent Nepalese rolling painting. The focus is on the story of the generous Prince Vishvantara, which is one of the famous rebirth stories of the Buddha. The presentation sheds light on the content, form and origin of the Nepalese picture role, on which the legend of Prince Vishvantara is depicted in 85 continuous scenes. The legend conveys the importance of reconciling duties to the family with ethical principles. Out of pious disposition, Vishvantara not only gives away all his possessions, but finally his children and wife. In doing so, he demonstrates his ability to give up emotional attachment – one of the most important prerequisites on the path to enlightenment.