During the age of the Guptas the sculptures came to have various curves and postures. Which of the following was the most depicted hand gesture?

Answer & Explanation

Answer: [A]

During the age of the Guptas, the most depicted hand gesture in sculpture was the Abhaya mudra. The Abhaya mudra is a gesture of reassurance and protection, commonly represented by the raised right hand with the palm facing outward. This mudra symbolizes fearlessness, peace, and the dispelling of fear.

While the other hand gestures you mentioned also have their significance, the Abhaya mudra was particularly prevalent during the Gupta period and can be seen in many Gupta sculptures and artworks. The Varada mudra, which is the gesture of charity and granting boons, was also common but less frequent compared to the Abhaya mudra. The Dhyana mudra represents meditation and the Vyakhyana mudra symbolizes teaching or giving a discourse, and they were relatively less prominent in Gupta sculptures compared to the Abhaya mudra.