Pinched Fingers, Open Palm

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This copper-toned figure sits on a stone seat, its whole meaning in two hands. The old monk sits cross-legged on a rocky platform, eyes lowered in a smile, his gaze resting on his own open left palm — the hand extends flatly outward, thumb and forefinger lightly touching to form a small ring, as if pinching some invisible tiny thing; the right hand, drawn back to his chest with fingertips slightly curled, answers it across the robe, one gathered and one extended. The long robe hangs open over a chest and belly carved full of rib lines, a cloth knot tied at the waist, drapery flowing in layers from the knees down the rock face. No ritual implement, no aureole — with nothing but a pair of hands, it holds the viewer's attention completely. Set in a study or a tea room, it makes people soften their movements without thinking.