Bodhisattva, possibly Maitreya
Pre-Angkorean
Pre-Angkor period, 7th‒8th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
31.1 × 9.8 × 8.1 cm (12 1/4 × 3 7/8 × 3 3/16 in.)
Classification
bronze
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
25650
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This small bronze sculpture represents a two-armed Bodhisattva, traditionally identified as Maitreya, the future Buddha, although this is not certain. Stylistically attributed to the pre-Angkor period (7th‒8th century), it is of Mon‒Khmer origin, possibly from Buriram province in northeast Thailand, where several similar pieces have been found. The figure’s ascetic appearance features a chignon adorned with a small stupa or caitya, finely looped hair, and the absence of jewelry. The statue wears...