Seated bodhisattva (left attendant of a triad). Culture: Korea. Dimensions: H. 20 1/4 In. (51.4 cm); W. 14 1/4 in. (51.4 cm); D. 12 3/4 in. (36.2 cm)H. to flame elements: 21 1/2 in. (54.6 cm). Date: ca. mid- 17th century.This elegant figure represents a bodhisattva--a compassionate, enlightened being who has chosen to remain on earth to help mortals attain enlightenment. This statue was originally one of two attendant bodhisattvas that flanked a Shakyamuni or Amitabha Buddha. The tall, ornate crown, oblong face, and drapery with cascading folds indicate that the statue was likely produced by an esteemed school of Buddhist monksculptors led by Ingyun (active 1615-63) for a temple in the South Jeolla Province, an important Buddhist power base at the time. Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.