Artwork
Four-armed Maitreya
Four-armed Maitreya is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1200 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work depicts a seated figure with four arms, rendered against a red field and framed by a thin black border.
About this work
Overview
The work depicts a seated figure with four arms, rendered against a red field and framed by a thin black border. The central figure is enclosed within a circular motif, its expression calm and slightly smiling, conveying a sense of inner peace.
Subject & Meaning
The four‑armed deity is identified as a representation of Maitreya, the future Buddha, whose multiple arms symbolize various aspects of compassion and spiritual power. The meditative posture and gentle smile reinforce the theme of serene enlightenment.
Technique & Style
Executed in a painted medium, the composition relies on bold color contrasts—the red background against the dark border—to focus attention on the central figure. Intricate patterns decorate the arms and hands, where specific mudrās (gestures) are indicated, reflecting traditional iconographic conventions.
History & Provenance
Details regarding the painting’s date, origin, or ownership history are not provided in the available information, leaving its chronological and geographic context undetermined.
Artist & collection
