Maitreya
Description
This magnificent gilded figure is Maitreya, the Buddha who is to appear in future. It is one of the most outstanding images from Western Nepal. Maitreya is the embodiment of compassion. Like all Bodhisattvas, he is enlightened and beyond the bondage of the world. He is portrayed here wearing a tall mukuta with stupa and adorned with earrings, necklaces, bracelets and other royal ornaments. He stands with eyes closed in deep meditation. His smile is benign and beautiful. His left-hand holds a kalasha (pitcher) and his right hand is in the vitarka mudra – that of holding a pearl between the thumb and the third finger symbolising the attainment of knowledge.
Gift from the Collection of Smt. Amaravati Gupta
Collection
Himalayan Art
Object Type
Sculpture
Material
Gilt Bronze
Schools/Culture/Period
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Technique
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Date
13th Century CE
Location
Nepal
Dimension
79(with tanon) x 20.5 x 17 cms