Bodhisattva, possibly Maitreya

This small bronze sculpture represents a two-armed Bodhisattva, traditionally identified as Maitreya, the future Buddha. Stylistically attributed to the pre-Angkor period (7th‒8th century), it is of Mon‒Khmer origin, likely from Buriram province in northeast Thailand, where several similar pieces have been found. The figure’s ascetic appearance features a chignon adorned with a small stupa or caitya, finely looped hair, and the absence of jewelry. The statue wears a short sampot (male wrapping garment) around the hips. The hand attributes, likely a water jar and lotus bud, were probably cast separately and are now lost. A joined tang beneath the feet suggests attachment to a now-lost base, reflecting early bronze casting techniques.