This trinity features a Buddha flanked by two Bodhisattvas. Notice how the Buddha is portrayed differently from his companions. He wears a simple robe and no jewelry. This reminds viewers that the Buddha abandoned his life of luxury to pursue enlightenment. On the other hand, the Bodhisattvas, who help human beings toward enlightenment, are portrayed as princes, wearing crowns, armbands, and necklaces.

This work is from the Indonesian island of Java, a key location on the trade route between India and China. Buddhist thought and imagery spread from India throughout Asia along these routes. However, each culture developed its own style. Javanese workshops are known for producing intricate bronzes, like this one. Artists cast these richly ornamented sculptures with jewel-like precision. This one is made of seven separately cast pieces, which, remarkably, have survived intact for a thousand years.

The sculpture was probably used for personal devotion. On the left, is the Boddhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteshvara, In front of him is a Brahmin Bull, on which he can ride. On the right, Vajrapani, the Bodhisattva of wisdom, appears with his makara, a fantastic crocodile elephant, who serves a similar function. The hand gesture of the Buddha indicates that he is preaching. This Buddha may be either Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, or Vajrayana, his transcendent manifestation.