Questions: Art historians could better identify the Peplos Kore, if only they knew? where the sculpture was located. what decorative motif was on her dress. who the sculptor was. what inscription was on the sculpture's base. what was in her outstretched hand.

The answer is what was in her outstretched hand.

While knowing the original location of the Peplos Kore could provide context about its cultural and historical significance, it would not directly help in identifying the specific identity or purpose of the sculpture.

The decorative motifs on her dress could offer insights into the period's fashion or artistic style, but they would not necessarily reveal the identity or specific role of the Peplos Kore.

Knowing the sculptor could provide information about the artistic style and period, but it would not directly identify the subject or purpose of the sculpture.

An inscription could potentially identify the subject or dedicate the sculpture to a particular deity or person, but the Peplos Kore does not have a known inscription that would clarify her identity.

The object in her outstretched hand is crucial for identification because it could indicate her role or identity. For example, if she held an offering, it might suggest she was a votive figure dedicated to a deity. This detail could significantly aid in understanding the sculpture's purpose and identity.