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Maitreya Buddha and Attendants
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Maitreya Buddha and Attendants
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Maitreya Buddha and Attendants
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Maitreya Buddha and Attendants
CHINA; Northern Qi dynasty (550–577), dated 552; Commissioned by Zhao Yuanzong; Marble; H: 70.9 cm; Ohara Museum of Art, Kurashiki, Japan
The sculpture features Maitreya Buddha seated with legs pendent and left hand in varada (wish-granting) mudra. The figure is flanked on either side by disciples with hands held in reverence and symmetrical Bodhisattvas carrying whisks. Kneeling beneath the attedant figures are two smaller Bodhisattvas with joined palms.
The Buddha’s nimbus has a foliated patterns, whereas the encircling mandorla is formed from the foliage of the tree with branches suggested by openwork carving. A pagoda is located at the curved apex, surrounded by apsaras in flight.
The front of the pedestal features a vase on a lotus flanked by figures making offerings. The sides and back are decorated with figures of deities. Inscriptions found along the base date the sculpture to 552 and name Zhao Yuanzong, Zhao Lanxing, and Zhao Yexing as the patrons. |
