Seated pensive Bodhisattva

The halo behind the bodhisattva's crowned head indicates divinity, and it is tempting to identify him as the bodhisattva form of the Buddha of the Future, Maitreya - the spherical reliquary he holds in his left hand could well be a substitute for a stupa, the symbol of Maitreya. The figure is seated in a classic contemplative pose, deep in meditation, his right elbow resting on his knee. The strongly modelled body and deeply carved swathes of robe reflect the strong Hellenistic influence that impacted on the area of ancient Gandhara with the eastward expansions of Alexander the Great. The strings of charms around his neck are typical of Gandharan figures; atypical is the tally wicker seat on which he sits.

The Asian Collections, AGNSW, 2003, pg.28.

Originating in the north-west regions of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, the art of Gandhara represents a unique meeting of East and West. From these sources there emerged a remarkable new art that flourished during the first four centuries of the Christian era. This figure of a Bodhisattva is distinguished by its quiet and contemplative attitude, the distinctive face with prominent moustache, the flowing drapery, the ornate pedestal, and the right foot casually raised leaving an empty sandal on the footstool. The right hand lightly touches the head in a pensive gesture, and the left holds a covered casket or alms bowl. It is an image that beautifully and richly embraces its cosmopolitan heritage and lays the foundations for the great traditions of East Asian Buddhist sculpture.

Excerpt from the Art Gallery Handbook, 1999. pg. 288.