The Bodhisattva Maitreya in Tuṣita Heaven

Unknown artist

Kushan dynasty, 2nd–3rd century

Schist

Tokyo National Museum

A stone relief sculpture depicts a seated figure, likely a deity, enthroned under a canopy and surrounded by smaller figures and architectural elements. The artwork is presented on a wooden base. Depicted here is the bodhisattva Maitreya, who in Buddhist belief will appear in 5.6 billion years to save humanity. He is preaching here in Tuṣita Heaven, where he is believed to reside. Origin: Pakistan