Seated Arhat (Buddhist Saint)
Unknown Artist
17th–18th century
Medium
Gilt bronze
Dimensions
H. 3 7/8 in. (9.8 cm)
Classification
Sculpture
Culture
Tibet
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1912
Accession Number
12.37.164
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Seated Arhat (Buddhist Saint)*, crafted by an unknown Tibetan artist in the 17th–18th century, captures the serene wisdom of an enlightened disciple of the Buddha. Arhats, revered in Tibetan Buddhism as saints who have achieved nirvana, were often depicted in meditative poses like this one, seated in a relaxed yet dignified posture symbolizing spiritual mastery. Measuring just 3 7/8 inches (9.8 cm) high, its intimate scale suggests it was likely a personal devotional object for private altars or portable shrines, allowing devotees to carry divine inspiration in their daily live...