The Norton Simon Museum presents Benevolent Beings: Buddhas and Bodhisattvas from South and Southeast Asia, an exhibition that explores how representations of protective deities have been seen to offer blessings, guidance and security to their devotees. Through 44 artworks drawn solely from the Norton Simon’s extensive collections---many of them being exhibited for the very first time---the exhibition examines the original context and evidence of use of these works, which range from utilitarian and instructive votive objects, to stone and bronze sculpture of bodhisattvas and merciful gods, to highly ornate gilt bronze buddhas.