Shotorak: Maitreya Bodhisattva Teaching the Dharma

AFGHANISTAN, Parwan, Bagram

The panel was excavated from a monastery at Shotorak, at what was once the ancient city of Kapisa. The scene portrayed is of Maitreya, enthroned in the center, teaching the inhabitants of Tusita Heaven while he awaits birth as the future Buddha. Maitreya is seated within a trapezoidal structure that represents a heavenly palace. The figure’s ankles are crossed and the hands are probably in the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. The clothing and jewelry worn are in the style of an Indian prince. Apsaras are above the shoulders, each with an instrument in hand. Rows of heavenly beings carrying offerings are lined along the balconies on either side while two other heavenly beings are seated in the posture of royal ease and gaze thoughtfully at Maitreya. Giant warriors stand guard at the sides, one carrying a pike and the other a cudgel. Balustrades are found along the top while various sections are divided by architectural elements in which Corinthian columns play a principal part.