Untitled

Unknown

early 8th century · Copper alloy, gilded and silvered, with silver inlay · Asian Art

This bodhisattva wears highly unusual costume and jewelry, including a waistcloth, sash, and elaborate necklace and diadem, which suggests it is styled after a particular court fashion, perhaps from the Swat Valley or Gilgit region. The fragmentary water bottle held in his left hand identifies him as Maitreya, the messianic Buddha of the future. The lotus base and rocky pedestal are not contemporary with the figure.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 8th century

Medium

Copper alloy, gilded and silvered, with silver inlay

Culture

Pakistan (likely Swat Valley or Gilgit region)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Muneichi Nitta, 2003