I found this wooden stamp the other day and I'm particularly fond of it.

Visually, I find it beautiful but I know there is much history and messages to this hand in various faiths. I kind of love that. I remember seeing it in my brother-in-law's home once, he is Israeli and I was intrigued because I didn't realise it was an Israeli symbol, amongst others.

4.5" x 4.5" Stretched Canvas, The Study of Things #1

This is what I've found out...

In Judaism they refer to it as the hand of Miriam, to honor the sister of Moses.
In Levantine Christianity it’s known as the hand of Mother Mary, after Jesus’ mother.
In Islam it’s known as the hand of Fatima, after Muhammad’s daughter.

I loved painting this wooden block. I wasn't sure I was going to be able to do it. I started slowly and procrastinated a bit. I worked in stages until it appeared and I was a little surprised when it turned out how I hoped. I am delighted.

xoxoxox