A Maitreya Buddha thangka is a traditional Tibetan Buddhist painting depicting Maitreya, the future Buddha who is prophesied to appear in the world when the teachings of the current Buddha, Shakyamuni, have declined. Maitreya represents hope, compassion, and the promise of future enlightenment.
In these thangkas, Maitreya is typically shown seated on a throne with one leg extended, symbolizing his readiness to descend to the world. This posture signifies his active role in guiding beings toward enlightenment when he arrives. Unlike other Buddhas, Maitreya’s posture reflects his future mission and his willingness to return to help sentient beings.
