Gilt Limestone Stele of Maitreya Buddha

This intricate limestone stele of a standing buddha likely depicts Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future. The only Buddhist divinity revered as both a bodhisattva and a Buddha, Maitreya is prophesied to return to Earth some time in the distant future and continue the historic Buddha's teachings of the Dharma. Like the historic Shakyamuni Buddha, Maitreya is a compassionate being devoted to showing the path to enlightenment.

Carved in the style of sixth century Chinese statuary, this elaborate stele shows Maitreya descending to Earth, encircled by a flaming halo and surrounded by flying musicians. He is flanked by two bodhisattva attendants, each supported by a cluster of lotus and a sinuous dragon. Maitreya is shown standing in long, flowing robes, his hands outstretched in abhaya and varada mudra, gestures of protection and compassion. The large stele is balanced upon a round lotus plinth and textured with traces of the original polychrome and gilt finish.

Deaccessioned from the MacLean Collection of Asian Art.