Maitreya, Buddha of the Future, 520 A.D.
Chinese, Northern Wei dynasty
Gilt bronze
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Edsel B. Ford
30.303

Maitreya is considered the successor to the founder of the Buddhist faith. When Maitreya comes in the future, he will bring universal salvation and happiness. Until that time, Buddhists believe that they are reborn after death in accordance with their deeds in life. This altarpiece is one of the largest and finest surviving examples of Maitreya. The slender form is decoratively enrobed in elongated triangular folds suggesting the mysteries of a higher realm. On the raised platform is an inscription by Fu Lingdu, dated the 22nd day of the 11th moon, 520, indicating that this figure was commissioned on behalf of the seven generations of parents (who have passed on), for the family now living, and for all infinite creation "hoping that the entirety of living creatures passing through Maitreya's three stages of transformation will quickly become Buddhas."