Merit-clay tablet with Maitreya Buddha and two bodhisattvas

7th century

Maitreya Buddha holds the meditation gesture, with hands resting in the lap. Words on the tablet’s other side describe the Buddha’s transcendent nature being manifest in his physical form: “For good karma during the Great Tang dynasty, this clay is impressed with the Buddha’s marvelous form body that captures his true thusness.” This tablet was impressed using a mold, and some red pigment remains from its ritual consecration. By donating the means to have it made, a person accumulated karmic merit for themselves or for others.

Earthenware, with trace of colors

4 7/8 x 4 1/2 x 15/16 in. (12.38 x 11.43 x 2.38 cm)

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

63.145

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Discovering Buddhist Art - Seeking the Sublime", July 9, 2003 - June 3, 2005

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