Nepali paintings explore the social and political issues of Nepal. The contents of the artworks have been closely related to the context. Artists grow in certain times and spaces. That environment and atmosphere have an impact upon the artist, and the same things have been reflected in their works in one way or other. When we view Nepali paintings throughout history, we can see the influence of contemporary social and political situations. Social convention and political power also determine the exhibition of artworks and the publication of art history and criticism. Traditional Nepali paintings are religious, mystical, symbolic, and didactic. Similar patterns can be found in the then society - gurus, yogis, and priests were at the top of the hierarchy teaching moral lessons, religion guided the society, the focus was on invisible and intangible aspects beyond concrete reality. During the Rana rule, the trend of painting portraits reached a climax, for the Ranas were self-centered and loved their own Image. The Rana rulers were influenced by British India. Similarly, the then Nepali paintings were influenced by western realistic techniques.