Vismayahasta, Vismaya-hasta: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Vismayahasta means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Hinduism

Shilpashastra (iconography)

Source: Google Books: Elements of Hindu iconography

Vismayahasta (विस्मयहस्त) indicates astonishement and wonder. In this pose the fore-arm is held up with the fingers of the hand pointing up and the palm turned away from the observer.

Source: Shodhganga: The significance of the mūla-beras (śilpa)

Vismayahasta (विस्मयहस्त) or simply Vismaya refers to “surprise” and represents one of the twenty-four gestures with a single hand, as defined according to texts dealing with śilpa (arts and crafs), known as śilpaśāstras.—Accordingly, pratimā-lakṣaṇa (body postures of the icons) is comprised of hand gestures (hasta, mudrā or kai-amaiti), stances/poses (āsanas) and inflexions of the body (bhaṅgas). There are thirty-two types of hands [viz., vismayahasta] classified into two major groups known as tolirkai (functional and expressive gestures) and elirkai (graceful posture of the hand).

(Description of Vismaya-hasta): When the alapadma-hasta is held vertically upward with the palm facing inwards and the back of hand facing outward, it is known as vismaya-hasta. Just like alapadma, the fingers are held separated to express an open blossom.

Shilpashastra book cover
context information

Shilpashastra (शिल्पशास्त्र, śilpaśāstra) represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

Discover the meaning of vismayahasta in the context of Shilpashastra from relevant books on Exotic India

See also (Relevant definitions)

Relevant text

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: