Maitreya – The Future Buddha
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 prophecy, 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 – The Future Buddha 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 appears as a universal teacher. His virtuous deeds and wise leadership will give rise to a new golden age of peace, prosperity, and flourishing Dharma.
Gesture and Attributes
Maitreya is seated on a throne, with both feet on the ground (like seen in this Maitreya – The Future Buddha Statue), poised in readiness to rise as he awaits the call of his time. His hands, held at the level of his heart, form the Dharma Chakra 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. Besides 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 into the world. Above Maitreya’s head is a beautiful parasol, indicating that he offers protection and refuge to all beings.
About this Maitreya – The Future Buddha Statue
This exquisite statue is a stunning representation of Maitreya Buddha, the Future Buddha, crafted with exceptional skill and artistry. Sculpted from copper alloy using the ancient lost wax method, it boasts a refined oxidation finish that enhances its intricate details.
The Buddha is seated on a magnificent throne in the Dharmachakra Mudra, symbolizing the turning of the Wheel of Dharma. The throne itself is adorned with elaborate carvings, including the Garuda with the Naga king and queen, a pair of Makara (mythical aquatic creatures), and other significant attributes of the Buddha. Each element, from the Buddha’s robe and five-pointed crown to the finely carved jewelry, Dharma Chakra, and Kalasha, showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of the artisan.
This fine piece of art was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the Shakya clan, who are renowned for their exceptional skill in creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. These craftsmen, modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition, have preserved and passed down their fine metalworking techniques through generations.
The harmonious blend of the oxidation finish and the intricate hand-carved details results in a perfect piece of art and beauty, embodying the spiritual and artistic heritage of Nepal. This sculpture not only captures the essence of Maitreya Buddha but also reflects the dedication and expertise of the artisans who brought it to life.
