Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s21.63

v2.c8.s21.63

In front of the king are two *Nāga* chiefs, one of whom has a double hood over his head. The number of hoods apparently signifies the social or political rank, for King Varuṇa has been shown with five hoods. It may be interesting to note that the ladies in this fresco as well as in other places have invariably been painted with one hood only. The *Nāga* chief with the double hood in this group is seated on a cushion, while the one to his left who has a single hood is squatting on the ground, the difference being apparently due to consideration of rank. The poses of both these figures² show great ease and naturalness, while the drawing is most vigorous. The features of the figure whose head is shown in profile apparently represent an aboriginal of ‘Dravidian’ type. Both these figures have made loops with their fingers to indicate their doubt of the success of Pūrṇaka’s mission in bringing Vidhurapaṇḍita’s heart.