Hand Painted Maitreya Buddha Thangka Paintings

Shop hand painted Maitreya Buddha thangka paintings by Nepali artists at our gallery in Boudha, Kathmandu. Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, stands for loving-kindness, hope and the promise of enlightenment for all beings. Each thangka is painted with traditional techniques and materials, and blessed by a monk before it ships. New to Maitreya? Read our guide to the Buddhas in Buddhism or the Bodhisattvas in Buddhism. We also take custom thangka commissions.

 

Maitreya Thangka: Meaning of the Buddha of the Future

In Tibetan Buddhism, Maitreya (Jampa in Tibetan) is the future Buddha, said to appear when the teachings of the current age decline. He symbolizes loving-kindness, patience and the evolution of humanity toward wisdom and peace. A Maitreya thangka brings that hope and compassion into your home, and is a meaningful piece for a meditation room, altar or gift.

What you see in a Maitreya thangka

  • Seated posture with both feet on lotus supports: this shows he is ready to rise and guide humanity.
  • Gentle smile and soft gaze: these reflect his compassion for all future generations.
  • Crown and jewels: Maitreya is shown as a bodhisattva, in royal dress, until he attains Buddhahood.
  • Lotus throne and halo: the traditional seat and light of an enlightened being.
  • Colors and styles: our collection includes full-color paintings and a black and white Maitreya thangka.

Maitreya Buddha or Bodhisattva Maitreya?

Both names are used. Bodhisattva Maitreya is the form before enlightenment, awaiting his rebirth on Earth. Maitreya Buddha is the form once he attains Buddhahood. In thangka art you will usually see him painted in his bodhisattva form. Read more about the bodhisattvas in our guide to the Bodhisattvas in Buddhism.

How to Choose a Maitreya Buddha Thangka

Authentic Hand Painted Thangkas, Blessed by a Monk

Every Maitreya thangka here is fully hand painted by trained artists using traditional techniques and materials. None are printed. A monk blesses each piece before it leaves our gallery. See how a thangka is made, or learn how to tell an original from a replica in our guide to authentic vs replica thangkas.

Order a Maitreya Thangka Online

We ship from Kathmandu to the USA, Canada, Australia and worldwide. Read our shipping policy before you order. You can also request a custom Maitreya thangka with your choice of size, background elements or brocade mounting through our commission page.

FAQs for Hand Painted Maitreya Buddha Thangka Paintings

Who is Maitreya Buddha?

Maitreya is the Buddha of the Future. He symbolizes hope, compassion and the promise of enlightenment for all beings when the world is ready.

What is the difference between Bodhisattva Maitreya and Maitreya Buddha?

Bodhisattva Maitreya is the form of Maitreya before enlightenment. He is awaiting his rebirth on Earth to become a Buddha in the future. Maitreya Buddha is the form once he attains Buddhahood.

When will Maitreya Buddha come?

In Buddhist tradition, Maitreya will come when the teachings of Gautama Buddha have faded from the world.

What does a Maitreya thangka symbolize?

It symbolizes loving-kindness, patience, hope and the evolution of humanity toward wisdom and peace.

Are your Maitreya thangkas hand painted?

Yes. All our Maitreya Buddha thangkas are fully hand painted by trained artists using traditional techniques and materials.

Are they blessed by a monk?

Yes. A monk blesses each thangka before it ships.

Can I order a custom Maitreya Buddha thangka?

Yes. We offer custom sizing, background elements and brocade mounting. Contact us through our commission page.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes. We ship to the USA, Canada, Australia and worldwide. See our shipping policy.

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