Metal statue artwork is one of the most advanced and appreciated art in Nepal. Metal statue art in Nepal dates back to the 7th century AD. Kathmandu Valley’s prosperity in many ways links to its early mastery over metal. The Tamrakar, Shakya, and Swarnakars of Nepal, used the unique lost wax metal sculpting process early on to make beautiful metal sculptures. They also had the technology to attain heat levels that could melt gold: this earned them great fame and money in the Himalayan region, particularly in Tibet. Bronze was initially used to make most statues but copper has replaced it in terms of popular use among artisans.

Sculpting a metal statue is a lengthy procedure that requires great skill. A large piece of metal statue art can take up to six months to create and several people need to work on it. Crafting the work by hand is a sometimes exhausting and time-consuming process that does not allow for large quantity art production. The local sculptors make statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities. They work with brass and bronze as well and produce traditional jars and plates as well as pieces that are commonly used in ceremonial events. The raw materials for metal statues; copper, brass, and bronze are imported from Malaysia, United Arabian Emirates, and other countries. Some raw materials are processed in Japan or Taiwan.