Ardhaparyanka

An asana or posture wherein the figure is depicted half-sitting on one folded leg while the other hangs at an angle. It is commonly found in Hindu iconography as well as yakshas and yakshis associated with Jainism.

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Mudra

Originating from the Sanskrit word for "seal" or "mark," it is a symbol or ritual gesture that is performed using…

Kairi

A floral motif, it resembles a green mango with a slightly curved tip. A popular motif in the design traditions…

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The depiction of a figure, usually a deity, with three heads. The so-called Pashupati Seal of Mohenjo-daro is an example…

Chandesanugrahamurti

A benevolent form (anugrahamurti) of the Hindu deity Shiva, in which he is depicted bestowing his blessings upon his devotee,…

Axis Mundi

A Latin phrase meaning “world axis” and referring to the centre of the earth or the point at which the…

Fleur-de-lis

From the French fleur, meaning "flower," and lis, meaning "lily," it is a decorative element or symbol commonly associated with…

Ushnisha

One of the thirty-two lakshanas within Buddhist iconography, the ushnisha is an oval arrangement of hair on top of the…

Mankolam

The Tamil term for the mango-shaped motif that is also known as kairi and paisley. Although it is visually identical…