Jain Miniature Paintings from Western India c6.432

c6.432

In the *Samavasaraṇa* scene of Ṛṣabhadeva referred to above, there is a garden in the centre with Aśoka trees and decoratively treated lakes with the *haṃsas*. The garden is approached by four gates. Framing the garden are four figures of yellow coloured Ṛhshabhadeva seated in *padmāsana* holding *bijoṛā* fruits. He wears elaborate ornaments and is surrounded by musicians, the *chaurī*-bearers and attendants. Each seat is decorated with a panel of eight auspicious symbols. On the four sides are represented forts with three-fold defensive walls. Within the first fort are shown gods, goddesses, men and women; in the second fort are animals; in the third various conveyances such as horses, elephants, palanquins, bullocks, chariots, etc.; and in the fourth fort, Ṛṣabhadeva is shown taking rest after preaching for three hours. On the four extreme corners of the painting are represented lakes and animals with altogether different nature, such as peacock and serpent, etc., which are born enemies.