Made in bronze and gilt during the late Three Kingdoms period in Korea (6th–7th century), the Pensive Bodhisattva represents the Buddha-to-be Maitreya in the moment of contemplation before his descent to save sentient beings: right leg crossed over the left knee, right hand lightly supporting the cheek. The serene smile, refined proportions, and linear rhythms of the drapery mark the zenith of early Korean Buddhist sculpture. Designated National Treasure No. 83 and stylistically close to the wooden Miroku at Kōryū-ji in Kyoto, it stands as one of the most important testimonies of early Korean–Japanese cultural exchange.

Exhibition Venue

National Museum of Korea

Seoul, South Korea

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