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Bodhisattva

Western Thailand

first half of the 7th century

Not on view

This sensually flexed figure typifies bodhisattva images at the height of the Dvaravati period. The head sports long tresses drawn up into an elaborate coiffure, and the face, with a gently downcast glance, radiates compassion. The recurrent depiction of bodhisattva figures underscores their paramount importance in Dvaravati Buddhism. They appear primarily in the service of the Buddha, akin to depictions of Brahma and Indra honoring the Buddha, rather than as fully independent cults.

cat. no. 147

Bodhisattva, Terracotta, Western Thailand — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Bodhisattva

Date: first half of the 7th century

Culture: Western Thailand

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: H. 34 in. (86.4 cm); W. 10 in. (25.4 cm); D. 6 in. (15.2 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Ratchaburi, Thailand

The Met

Asian Art at The Met

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world.