Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s4.3

v2.c8.s4.3

THE fresco represents seven figures, two of which, on the left side, are clad like hermits, the hair of one of them being done up in the style of the Sādhus. Another figure, to the right of the latter, represents a youth with long curled hair. Farther to the right is a prince dressed in a robe of brocade, and wearing a crown.¹ Below, in the middle, is Indra (Śakra) the Hundred-eyed,² one of whose eyes of wisdom is clearly indicated on his forehead. A green dwarf is wielding a *chaurī* behind him, and on the left is the head of a female figure, perhaps representing his consort Śachī. The Mahāyāna School adopted many legends and deities of the contemporary cults, and this group represents the supernatural beings which are mentioned as Yakshas in later Buddhist literature.¹ The style of drawing combines vigour with grace, and the heads of Indra and of the figure behind him are admirably delineated. To show worldly majesty, the painter has given to Indra a robust physique with a very broad chest and highly developed shoulders, while his spiritual glory is expressed by high lights on the forehead, nose, and lips, and the dignified expression of the face.