Standing Bodhisattva

Description

This small bronze sculpture represents a two-armed Bodhisattva, traditionally identified as Maitreya, the future Buddha, although this is not certain. Stylistically attributed to the pre-Angkor period (7th‒8th century), it is of Mon‒Khmer origin, possibly from Buriram province in northeast Thailand, where several similar pieces have been found. The figure’s ascetic appearance features a chignon adorned with a small stupa or caitya, finely looped hair, and the absence of jewelry. The statue wears a short sampot (male wrapping garment) around the hips. The hand attributes, likely a water jar and lotus bud, were probably cast separately and are now lost. A joined tang beneath the feet suggests attachment to a now-lost base, reflecting early bronze casting techniques.

Provenance

With William H. Wolff (1906–1991), New York, by Oct. 1965 [this and the following according to invoice, Oct. 25, 1965; copy in curatorial object file]; given to the Art Institute of Chicago, July 14, 1966.

Standing Bodhisattva

Pre-Angkorean

Pre-Angkor period, 7th‒8th century

Accession Number

25650

Medium

Bronze

Dimensions

31.1 × 9.8 × 8.1 cm (12 1/4 × 3 7/8 × 3 3/16 in.)

Classification

bronze

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. William H. Wolff