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Lot Essay
The figure features large rounded eyes, a thick nose, and a smiling expression, wearing a jewelled stupa crown above long braided hair. Behind him is a round flame-edged and beaded aureole. He is seated in lalitasana on a beaded lotus base, elevated on a rectangular platform supported by four short feet. His right hand rests on his knee in varada mudra (gesture of dispensing boons), while his left hand is slightly bent, holding the nagakesara (Indian rose chestnut tree). The figure wears a shackle across his left shoulder and right rib, symbolising his status in ascetic practice. The yajnopavita (sacred thread) drapes from his shoulder and rests on his legs.
This present figure represents a typical and popular depiction from the post-Gupta, early Pala period. The armlets worn on the upper arms are a defining characteristic of early bronze statue work within this tradition. The overall depiction of the statue, along with the lotus seat and the mandorla, reflects the unique imagery style of northeastern India during the 8th and 9th centuries.
Maitreya was originally one of the great disciples of the Buddha Sakyamuni. He appears in Bodhisattva form and resides in the heavenly realm of Tusita, where Bodhisattvas, or future Buddhas, dwell before their rebirth as Buddhas. According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is the Bodhisattva who will eventually appear on Earth, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure Dharma. Furthermore, scriptures state that Maitreya will succeed the present Buddha, Gautama Buddha (also known as Sakyamuni Buddha).
Another figure of Maitreya of similar style in standing position and without the aureole, was sold at Christie’s New York, 15 March 2016, lot 47.
This present figure represents a typical and popular depiction from the post-Gupta, early Pala period. The armlets worn on the upper arms are a defining characteristic of early bronze statue work within this tradition. The overall depiction of the statue, along with the lotus seat and the mandorla, reflects the unique imagery style of northeastern India during the 8th and 9th centuries.
Maitreya was originally one of the great disciples of the Buddha Sakyamuni. He appears in Bodhisattva form and resides in the heavenly realm of Tusita, where Bodhisattvas, or future Buddhas, dwell before their rebirth as Buddhas. According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is the Bodhisattva who will eventually appear on Earth, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure Dharma. Furthermore, scriptures state that Maitreya will succeed the present Buddha, Gautama Buddha (also known as Sakyamuni Buddha).
Another figure of Maitreya of similar style in standing position and without the aureole, was sold at Christie’s New York, 15 March 2016, lot 47.