24k gold leaf, polished silver and enamels on this antique Nepalese Matreya Buddha. Materials and coloring under prescription of a Tibetan Monk.

Maitreya, known as the future Buddha in Buddhist tradition, is a bodhisattva who is prophesied to appear in the world to renew the Dharma (the teachings of the Buddha) when it has been forgotten or lost. Residing in the Tushita Heaven, Maitreya is believed to await the appropriate time to descend to Earth, achieve enlightenment, and guide humanity toward liberation. Depictions of Maitreya often show him seated on a throne, symbolizing his readiness to step into his role as a teacher. In many cultures, he is portrayed as a figure of hope and renewal, representing the promise of a compassionate and enlightened future. Devotees seek inspiration from Maitreya's boundless patience and commitment to humanity's spiritual progress, aspiring to cultivate these qualities in their own lives.