A Maitreya Buddha thangka depicts Maitreya, the Buddha of the future, who is prophesied to be the next Buddha to appear in this world. Maitreya is a symbol of hope, compassion, and the future enlightenment of all beings. In Tibetan Buddhism, he holds a significant place as the Buddha who will succeed Shakyamuni Buddha.
In the thangka, Maitreya is often depicted seated on a throne or in a relaxed, seated posture known as the European pose (with legs hanging down), which is unusual compared to the cross-legged posture of most other Buddhas. This posture symbolizes his readiness to descend to the earthly realm when the time comes. Maitreya is usually adorned with rich ornaments, wearing a crown, necklaces, bracelets, and other regal attire, indicating his status as a bodhisattva and future Buddha.
