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Maitreya Buddha, 705 (limestone)
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Maitreya Buddha, 705 (limestone)
3726177 Maitreya Buddha, 705 (limestone) by Chinese School, Tang Dynasty (618-907); 82.3x33x30.2 cm; The Art Institute of Chicago, IL, USA; (add.info.: Mi-le, aIai ao
Seated depictions of the Buddha originated in Indian art, perhaps in portraits of Indian royalty. The Chinese reserved this imagery for Maitreya (Chinese: Mi-le), the Buddha of the Future, who waits in a cosmic heaven before descending to earth. This figure of Maitreya is about to step off his throne into this world, fulfilling the hopes and prayers of the faithful. His right hand is raised in a mudra (gesture) meaning " fear not." Flames, emphasizing radiance and holy presence, border his outer halo, and his head is framed by an open lotus, whose blossoms also rise beneath his feet. Because it emerges pure white from muddy water, the lotus is a pervasive symbol of the Buddhist nature within all living things.
An inscription on the base of this image states that it was dedicated in 705 by the Buddhist disciple Yang Zongchun " for the sake of [his] deceased parents and seven generations of deceased ancestors, present family members, and all paternal and maternal relatives." The inscription also mentions that the figure was part of a triad, originally flanked by two bodhisattvas representing emanations of Mi-les power and mercy, respectively.); Gift of Alice Getty; Chinese, out of copyright
Media ID 22970940
© Gift of Alice Getty / Bridgeman Images
Brave Bravery Buddha Buddhism Buddhist Courage Enthroned Fearless Figurine Future Lotus Mudra Optimism Optimistic Spirituality Statuette Maitreya
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Maitreya Buddha, a revered figure in Chinese art from the Tang Dynasty. Seated depictions of the Buddha were typically reserved for Maitreya, also known as Mi-le, who symbolizes the Buddha of the Future. In this image, Maitreya is depicted on the verge of descending to earth from his cosmic heaven. The sculpture exudes a sense of tranquility and hope as Maitreya prepares to fulfill the aspirations and prayers of devotees. His right hand is raised in a mudra that signifies "fear not" instilling comfort and reassurance among those who encounter this artwork. Flames encircle his outer halo, emphasizing his radiant and divine presence. Additionally, an open lotus frames his head while its blossoms gracefully rise beneath his feet. The lotus holds deep symbolism within Buddhism as it represents purity emerging from muddy water – a reminder that all living beings possess inherent Buddhist nature. An inscription on the base reveals that this image was dedicated in 705 by Yang Zongchun, a devoted Buddhist disciple. He offered this sculpture as homage to honor his deceased parents and ancestors spanning seven generations. Originally part of a triad composition flanked by two bodhisattvas representing different aspects of Mi-le's power and mercy, this remarkable piece now resides at The Art Institute of Chicago thanks to Alice Getty's generous gift.
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