Maitreya – The Future Buddha
Maitreya Buddha is regarded as the Buddha to be born in the future of this fortunate aeon. After perfectly demonstrating how to achieve enlightenment, he will bring the pure teachings to the people, turning the Wheel of Dharma like Buddha Shakyamuni did thousands of years before. According to prophesy, Maitreya is the appointed successor of Shakyamuni, but he will only appear in the world after Shakyamuni’s teachings have faded away completely.
For now, Maitreya waits in the pure heaven of Tushita, where he is reachable through meditation. He continually guides beings along the path to enlightenment, and he is especially revered for bestowing the spiritual realization of loving-kindness upon practitioners. Buddhists of all sects joyfully anticipate Maitreya’s future appearance as a universal teacher. His virtuous deeds and wise leadership will give rise to a new golden age of peace, prosperity, and flourishing Dharma.
Gestures and Attributes
Maitreya is seated on a throne, with both feet on the ground, poised in readiness to rise as he awaits the call of his time. His hands, held at the level of his heart, form the Dharmachakra Mudra, the gesture of teaching and turning the Wheel of Dharma. Between the thumb and index finger of each hand he holds the stem of a lotus flower, indicating his radiant power and purity. Beside his right ear one lotus blooms and supports a golden Wheel of Dharma, which as it turns carries beings along spiritual paths to liberation and enlightenment. Beside his left ear the second lotus blossom supports a long-necked vase brimming with nectar; symbolizing the nectar of pure Dharma which Maitreya will one day pour onto the world. Above Maitreya’s head is a beautiful parasol, indicating that he offers protection and refuge to all beings.
About this Sculpture
This statue is an exquisite portrayal of Maitreya, the Future Buddha, masterfully sculpted from copper alloy using the ancient Lost Wax Method. Every detail has been carefully hand-carved, showcasing intricate craftsmanship, and the entire piece has been gilded with 24-karat gold, giving it a rich, sensuous finish. The statue features a hand-painted face that radiates kindness and wisdom, enhancing its lifelike presence.
Maitreya is seated gracefully upon a beautifully carved lotus base. Two delicate flowers rise from behind him, blossoming at ear level. Atop the flower on the right side rests a Dharma Chakra, symbolizing the wheel of law, while on the left sits a Kalasha, representing abundance and purification. A stunning frame encircles Maitreya’s head, adorned with intricate leaf-like patterns, adding to the overall beauty of the sculpture.
The statue’s attention to detail is remarkable. The stupa atop Buddha’s hair rests upon a lotus flower, and his five-pointed crown, robes, and ornaments are all meticulously hand-carved. The lotus base is equally detailed, reflecting the skill of the artisans. The 24-karat gold gilding, combined with the stone decorations, gives the statue a radiant, lifelike appearance.
This extraordinary sculpture was handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan, who are renowned worldwide for their expertise. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. The metalworking techniques used in this statue have been passed down through generations, preserving the legacy of ancient artistry.
