Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s21.23

v2.c8.s21.23

The minister is painted in the middle with his head inclined to one side as if to show that he is indifferent to the displeasure of the king at his decision. The position of his right hand is, however, symbolical of the meditative mood, and the expression of his face also gives the same idea. In the fresco on the left side is the figure of Dhanañjaya, which has been somewhat damaged, and his expression of chagrin at the defeat cannot be made out. He is shown sitting on a striped cushion, and there is another behind his back. On the other side of Vidhurapaṇḍita is Pūrṇaka, declaring his second triumph, by bending his second finger, at the decision of the minister. The delineation of the fingers in the whole of this fresco is most artistic, and the great care which the painter has taken to suggest the meaning of the story by their gestures is very noticeable. The coiffure and the features of Pūrṇaka are also worthy of praise.