Buddha of the Future, Miroku Bosatsu (Late 600s CE)

The “Buddha of the Future (Miroku Bosatsu)”, dating from the late 600s during Japan’s Asuka period (538–710), is a bronze sculpture housed in The Cleveland Museum of Art. The figure, standing at 39.4 cm (15 1/2 inches), features incised bronze with traces of gilding. This small devotional object, representing Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, embodies a deep sense of gentle grace and powerful presence, capturing the essence of early Japanese Buddhist beliefs in salvation and the future Buddha’s role in the cosmic order.

The Buddha of the Future was created during the Asuka period, a time when Buddhism was newly introduced to Japan from Korea and China in the 6th century. For early Japanese believers, the introduction of Buddhism brought with it the promise of salvation, especially through Maitreya, who was prophesied to appear at the end of time. Maitreya, known in Japan as Miroku Bosatsu, was a significant figure of devotion for the Japanese aristocracy, who supported the spread of this new faith.

It is said that many of the Japanese aristocracy of the Asuka period, deeply moved by the promise of salvation offered by Maitreya, commissioned small sculptures like this one for private devotion. These objects became a popular means of expressing their faith and devotion to the Buddha of the Future. The elite class’s belief in Maitreya’s eventual return played a crucial role in establishing Buddhism as a central part of Japanese religious life.

In the context of Buddhist art, the “Buddha of the Future (Miroku Bosatsu)” holds a significant place. Maitreya, or Miroku, is considered the future Buddha who will re-establish the dharma after the teachings of the historical Buddha (Shakyamuni) have been forgotten. The sculpture’s serene expression and posture emphasize Maitreya’s role as a benevolent and compassionate figure, destined to bring hope and salvation in a time of spiritual decline. Its design and craftsmanship reflect the early Japanese interpretations of continental Asian Buddhist art, particularly in the way it adopts and transforms stylistic elements from Chinese and Korean traditions.

The Buddha of the Future scuplture is made from cast bronze, a material commonly used in religious statuary during the Asuka period. The figure stands at 39.4 cm (15 1/2 inches) in height and is delicately incised, with remnants of gilding still visible, suggesting that the sculpture was once richly decorated. The intricate detailing of the sculpture, despite its small size, exemplifies the high level of skill and devotion of Asuka-period artisans.

This particular Buddha of the Future sculpture is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art. It was likely commissioned for private devotion by a member of Japan’s aristocracy during the 7th century, before eventually finding its way to the museum’s collection.