Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s5.5

v2.c8.s5.5

Among the subjects reproduced, Plate X *a* represents a quarter of the middle panel, showing a pair of flying figures amidst white and green clouds. The delineation of the female figure is extremely graceful; in one hand she holds a double string of pearls with a pendant, as an offering to the Bodhisattva, while she has placed the other hand in a most charming manner on the shoulder of her consort, apparently to support herself. Unfortunately, the heads of both figures are damaged, so the expressions of their faces cannot be studied, but the gesture of the hand of the male figure shows that he is explaining some doctrine of the faith to his consort, who is listening to him with attention, as indicated by the inclination of her head. The poses of the body and the drawing of the limbs show much artistic feeling.