Boddhisattva Maitreya
2nd–3rd century
Asia: Pakistan; Asia: Gandhara
Schist
The Norton Simon Foundation
Made in Gandhara, in what is now Pakistan and Afghanistan, this sculpture reflects the international style that was present in this ancient kingdom. Gandhara was located along the Silk Road, the primary mercantile route that connected the East to the West. Buddhist images from this region were influenced by Greco-Roman examples.
The ushnisha or cranial protuberance of this Maitreya is interpreted as a luscious chignon, similar to those used for images of Greek gods and goddesses. The figure wears two necklaces one of which has a charm depicting Poseidon, a god with Greek origins. This suggests that there was a certain degree of religious tolerance in Gandhara at the time of this sculpture’s making. Moreover, the inclusion of this charm along with the figure’s shoes and the relaxed manner in which he wears his robe, suggests that images of male deities were modeled after kings.
A New Home for Bodhisattva Maitreya
During the remodel of the South and Southeast Asian galleries in the late 1990s, this sculpture of Bodhisattva Maitreya gained a new home in a specially designed niche. Dramatically lit, this sculpture depicts the future Buddha, currently residing in the heavens as Bodhisattva Maitreya. The details of his attire are intriguing in the context of a bodhisattva. For instance, a Roman god appears on the collar necklace, while protective amulets—worn by royalty—are draped across the torso. These elements suggest that artisans may have drawn inspiration from royal adornments when crafting sculptures of bodhisattvas. This thoughtfully crafted alcove, positioned at the far end of a long hallway, draws attention to the monumental Gandhara sculpture, distinguishing it from surrounding works and enhancing its sacredness as it overlooks the South and Southeast Asian galleries.
