Title: Maitreya, the Future Buddha
Medium: Gilt copper, turquoise
Dimensions: H x W: 70 x 40.5 cm (27 9/16 x 15 15/16 in)
Origin: Mongolia
Period: Qing Dynasty, 2nd half of 18th century
Description: This is an image of a gilt copper and turquoise sculpture of Maitreya. Maitreya is the Future Buddha and is usually pictures seating with feet crossed at the ankles, which he is seen doing in this image. Some of the main features of this sculpture are the turquoise third eye on Maitreya’s forehead, the detailed texture of Maitreya’s hair (tied into a top knot), and also the large golden throne that Maitreya is sitting upon. The throne has a large and symmetrical pattern circling around it, but also has very fine details near the seat of the throne. The figure is making a soft smile expression and seems extremely calm. Finally, the sculpture appears to be in near perfect condition, but there seem to be just a few small marks on the shoulder area of the figure.
References: https://asia.si.edu/object/S2011.11/
