Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s10.9

v2.c8.s10.9

Above the dwarfs are three ladies, the one at the extreme left end holding a tray of flowers, among which the lotus is prominent. The complexion of the lady is brick-red, perhaps showing her humble rank in life. The coiffure of this figure is, however, most elaborate, but people who are familiar with the habits and styles of different classes of women of the Deccan know that the coiffure of a *Dhed* (menial class) or a *Kunbi* (peasant) woman at the present time is as elaborate as that of a high-class Hindu lady. The arm and the breast of this figure are considerably exaggerated, and may appear inartistic to a European critic, but the delineation of the fingers and waist shows much tender feeling, and must be admired.