Antique Khmer Style Southeast Asia Bronze Teaching Hand - 24cm/9.5"

Antique Khmer Style Southeast Asia Bronze Hand - 24cm/9.5"

Vitarka Teaching Hand Mounted on Wood Base

Measures (Height) 24cm/9.5"

An elegant Cambodian Khmer-style bronze hand, mounted on a dark wooden display base. With its elongated fingers, gently curved palm, and richly ornamented wrist, this expressive sculpture brings a sense of stillness and refinement to a home, office, or contemplative setting.

The thumb and index finger meet to form a circle, while the remaining fingers rise in softly articulated curves. This teaching gesture is most accurately described as vitarka mudra, associated with explanation, discussion, and the transmission of Buddhist wisdom. Closely related to the two-handed dharmachakra mudra, it evokes the sharing of the Dharma—the Buddha’s teaching.

A circular, mandala-like motif decorates the centre of the palm. Its concentric rings, radiating lines, and petal-like projections create a striking ornamental focal point, echoing the circle formed by the fingertips. Incised lines define the nails and finger joints, while a pointed decorative outline near the wrist adds a further note of detail.

The wrist is encircled by broad, rounded bands worked with repeating circular and spiral patterns. These ornate details contrast with the smooth contours of the hand, giving the sculpture visual interest from both front and back.

A dark bronze surface, mottled with green tones and lighter highlights, lends depth to the modelling. The simple rectangular wooden base provides a restrained counterpoint to the hand’s flowing silhouette and elaborate ornament.

A distinctive piece for those drawn to Buddhist symbolism, Khmer-inspired design, and expressive sculptural forms.

Symbolism of the Teaching Gesture

In Buddhist art, a mudra is a meaningful hand gesture. Here, the meeting of thumb and index finger forms a circle associated with teaching and the communication of understanding. The open palm and lifted fingers give this symbolic gesture a graceful, welcoming character.

Key Features

• Height: 24 cm / approximately 9½ inches.

• Cambodian Khmer-style bronze hand sculpture.

• Fingers arranged in a teaching gesture, know as the vitarka mudra.

• Thumb and index finger meeting to form a circle.

• Elongated, gently curved fingers with incised nail and joint details.

• Circular, mandala-like ornament at the centre of the palm.

• Broad decorative wrist bands with repeating circular and spiral motifs.

• Dark surface with mottled green tones and lighter highlights.

• Mounted on a rectangular dark wooden display base.

• Sculptural detail visible from multiple viewpoints.

• Suitable as a decorative focal point for a study, living space, or meditation area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the hand gesture represent?

The gesture represents teaching, explanation, and the transmission of Buddhist wisdom. Known as vitarka mudra, it is formed by bringing the thumb and index finger together while raising the remaining fingers.

Is this vitarka mudra or dharmachakra mudra?

For a single hand in this position, vitarka mudra is the more accurate description. Dharmachakra mudra generally uses both hands together and refers specifically to turning the Wheel of Dharma. The two are closely related, but they are not identical.

What is the design on the palm?

The palm features a circular, mandala-like ornament with concentric rings and radiating, petal-like details. It gives the sculpture a contemplative focal point. Without further documentation, it is best described as a decorative sacred-style motif rather than assigned to a particular mandala or doctrinal diagram.

Is the sculpture mounted on a base?

Yes. The hand is mounted on a dark rectangular wooden base, which contrasts with the curved bronze form and provides a defined platform for display.

How tall is the sculpture?

The stated height is 24 cm, equivalent to approximately 9½ inches. 

What condition details are visible?

The photographs show a mottled surface, green-toned areas, lighter marks, and some wear to the wooden base. Fine lines are also visible on the base. These features should be assessed from the photographs and direct inspection rather than used to establish the sculpture’s age.

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