A Bodhisattva is somebody who is on the path to enlightenment, but has not yet reached it. According to some definitions, Bodhisattvas are qualified to enter nirvana, but have chosen not to, because of their desire to remain on earth and help others on their own journeys to overcome suffering and attain enlightenment. In Early Buddhism, the term was used to refer to the Buddha in the period of his life before he reached nirvana. Different Buddhist schools now hold varying definitions of the term; within Theravada Buddhism, Bodhisattvas are rare individuals who have both made a resolution to become a Buddha and had confirmation from a living Buddha that this will happen. However, within Mahayana Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is anyone who has the quality of bodhicitta: a mind (‘citta’) directed towards enlightenment (‘bodhi’), or a wish to attain Buddhahood for the good of all sentient beings. According to this understanding, everyone has the opportunity to become a Bodhisattva.

This bronze Bodhisattva is seated upon a platform in the full lotus position. His right hand is held outwards, with the middle and fourth finger extended forwards with a slight curve, and the second and fifth pointing straight up. This could be a variation of the Vitarka mudra (a gesture or body position with a symbolic meaning and connection to the life of the Buddha), which is the gesture of discussion. This figure is heavily adorned, with large earrings pulling the earlobes downwards, an elaborate headdress, and chains across his chest. Bodhisattvas are often represented with elaborate clothing and adornment. This contrasts with depictions of the Buddha, which emphasise his renouncement of earthly riches by portraying him clothed in plain robes. There are also swags of drapery curving out from underneath him and behind his arms. His peaceful expression, with closed eyes, can be seen to represent the serene state of enlightenment which Bodhisattvas are aiming to achieve.