Label:
This hand, together with its companion, were probably part of a larger sculpture of a Buddha. Together they form the earth-touching gesture (blumisparshamudra). According to Buddhist doctrine, through this gesture The Buddha calls the earth goddess to affirm that he is entitled to attain enlightenment following his triumph over Mara, the destroyer.

* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit.