This
Maitreya (Sanskrit for Merciful One) emanates a compassionate presence whose qualities
are brilliantly evoked in this impeccably finished bronze with its soft _expression,
its grace and gentle smile.
The future Buddha is in seated posture performing the mudra of turning
the wheel of the Dharma. Although this mudra identifies Maitreya, the pendant
leg is unusual, a posture that ordinarily belongs to Tara. The extended foot rests
on a lotus and extends over the edge of the base. The darkened bronze is luxuriantly
ornamented with laid-on carving for the long braids, jeweled armbands, earrings,
necklaces and crown. The hair which is caught up in a bun parts and flows over
the shoulders in curling tendrils. The face is admirably realized expressing compassion
and omniscience. The complex arrangement of the figure is accomplished with great
poise; the positioning of the hands with their back-turning fingertips and the
incredible delicacy of gesture endow this Maitreya with a kinetic quality, for
he seems to be moving when seen from changing angles. The hands are so sensitively
modeled that one can almost see the Dharma wheel spinning between them. The artistry
of the work is exceptional, with great care taken in every detail; patterns of
floral motifs circle the entire base and finely detailed flowers adorn the dhoti.
Even the back of the figure is perfectly finished, leaving no doubt that this
is a work of unsurpassed skill and integrity.
-- RW