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14th century

Hand

Artist/maker unknown

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.

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Artist/maker unknown, Hand, 14th century | Philadelphia Museum of Art