Seated Maitreya
Unknown Artist
9th century(?)
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
Classification
Sculpture
Culture & Period
India · Pala period
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Samuel Eilenberg Collection, Gift of Samuel Eilenberg, 1987
Accession Number
1987.142.347
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze sculpture, *Seated Maitreya hails from India's Pala period, likely dating to the 9th century. Crafted by an unknown artist, it stands just 2 7/8 inches (7.3 cm) tall, making it a intimate devotional object perfect for personal meditation or portable worship. The Pala dynasty (8th–12th centuries) in eastern India was a golden age for Buddhist art, with royal patronage fostering intricate metalwork that blended spiritual symbolism with masterful craftsmanship. Maitreya, the "Future Buddha," is depicted here in a serene seated pose, embodying hope for enlightenment in Mahay...