The Evolution Of Icons Of Maitreya And The Maitreyan Faith From The Northern And Southern Dynasties To Sui-Tang

The icon of Maitreya and the faith in him originated in Indian subcontinent, was introduced into Xi-yu (western regions of China) and then has been prevailingly popular in China until now. The related valuable heritage (referring to the paintings and sculptures of Maitreya Buddha) is the microcosm of the millennial Maitreyan faith, silently accounting its evolution.This research starts on the collection and analysis of the icons of Maitreya in Indian subcontinent, Xi-yu and China to make a complete pedigree of the icons of Maitreya. Furthermore, with the assistance of textual documents, I will analyze the materials step by step and discuss from various perspectives, including the chronological evolution and geographical distribution of the icons. On a macrocosmic scale, I will assess the icons from their historical background; on a microcosmic scale, I will explore their connotation. My goal is to resolve the many puzzles of Maitreya images and to unfold the latent significance of the icons of Maitreya through deduction and induction. Most importantly, I aim for a more profound understanding of the Maitreyan faith in China."Maitreya" literarily means loving-kindness. According to the Buddhist sutras, he is the "next future Buddha," who will become a successor of Sakyamuni Buddha in this world. As in "the last life in the bodhisattva stage" , he now dwell in Tusita Heaven and teaches celesyial beings Buddhism. Because of his two statuses as both "next Buddha" and "bodhisattva," he is portrayed both as a Buddha and bodhisattva in sculptures, paintings, etc. His posture varies, including...