Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c8.9

v1.c8.9

*Gadā* is the ordinary Indian club. It is held in the hand by the images with all the five fingers. In some cases, however, one of the hands of the image is placed upon the top of the *gadā* which rests on the floor. In the earlier sculptures, its representation is always plain; it has a tapering top and a stout bottom (Pl. I, fig. 6). In comparatively later instances, it is more or less elaborately ornamented (Pl. I, figs. 7 and 8). It is a weapon meant to strike the enemy at close quarters and does not therefore leave the hand of its owner.