Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s22.7

v2.c8.s22.7

The boat itself seems to be massively built, and the presence of twelve large pitchers of fresh water in its bow may indicate the strength of the crew, or suggest that the vessel is bound for a long voyage. A pair of oars is visible, each of which is attached to the side of the boat by a loop, the ends of the latter for security being passed through two rings fixed to the boat (Plate XLII).² Dragons’ heads are carved both in the front and hind parts of the boat, and there is a lip-like projection at each end which adds to the picturesqueness of the design, and might have been useful for steering purposes as well, especially in shallow waters.