Illustration of the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya

KOREA; Goryeo dynasty

This illustration based on the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya was painted in the 14th century. The central image is Maitreya Buddha attaining enlightenment beneath a dragon flower tree. Maitreya wears a red monastic robe decorated with golden patterns. His right hand forms a mudra in front of his chest and his left hand rests in front of his abdomen. Maitreya Buddha and two attendant Bodhisattvas sit with their legs pendent and their feet resting upon lotus pedestals. They are surrounded by heavenly beings, disciples, and Dharma protectors. Above the central figures, heavenly beings playing music and the Buddhas of Ten Directions are shown sitting or standing upon clouds.
In the bottom register, there is a symbolic depiction of the city of Ketumati, where the future Buddha Maitreya will be born to the minister couple Brahmayu and Brahmavati. Maitreya will grow to become a magnificent being, displaying all of the characteristics of excellence. King Sankha will be in awe of Maitreya, and will make an offering of a jeweled platform made out of the seven treasures. Realizing that the treasure is empty and impermanent, Maitreya will give the platform to the brahmins, who will break it into pieces and share it with the people of the kingdom. Maitreya will leave the householder’s life and quickly attain enlightenment. He will amass countless followers, and an era of great peace and longevity will begin. Even King Sankha will renounce the throne and learn the Dharma from Maitreya. The layout of the figures is compact and symmetrical, and they are painted with delicate technique.