Seated Bodhisattva Maitreya

Date3rd Century

CultureGandharan

MediumGray schist

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936

Object numberSN5429

Seated on a lion throne, the bodhisattva Maitreya is identifiable by a small jug in his left hand. A ring of radiance surrounds his head. The missing arm was probably raised in a gesture that signified protection. A compassionate being, Maitreya was believed to be the Buddha of the Future. Museum records indicate that John Ringling purchased this piece at the end of the 1920s. Comparisons may be made to another Gandharan sculpture of Maitreya in this exhibit.

On View

Not on view

Collections

Dimensions13 x 9 1/2 x 4 in. (33 x 24.1 x 10.2 cm)