Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s21.7

v2.c8.s21.7

Commencing as usual from the left side, we notice the court scene in which Pūrṇaka is showing the magnificent jewel¹ to King Dhanañjaya in order to induce him to play a game of dice (Plate XXXV). King Dhanañjaya is painted in a homely attitude, sitting on a low throne which is covered with a striped cloth of zigzag design. The drawing of the figure shows a firm outline, careful shading, and conspicuous high lights. The expression of the face has been somewhat dimmed owing to the partial obliteration of the features, but the gesture of his fingers—the thumb of his right hand placed on the second line of his middle finger—suggests that, barring his own person and the ‘white umbrella’ (emblem of sovereignty), he is prepared to stake everything to win the magical jewel.