Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s7.13

v2.c8.s7.13

The second episode is represented on Plate XVIa, where we notice a large goose, King Dhṛitarāshṭra, sitting on a throne, the feet of which seem to have been turned on a lathe. The wings of the Goose-King were originally painted of a golden colour, to tally with the story, but on account of the effect of fire the wings have become black now. By the side of the throne on which Dhṛitarāshṭra is seen, there is another throne occupied by the other goose, Sumukha, the captain of the flock of golden geese. The feet of the latter throne are visible, but on account of the blackening of the fresco, the figure of Sumukha cannot be made out. According to the story, the two divine birds are instructing Saṃyama, the Rājā of Benares, and his consort Khemā, in the mysteries of the Law. The outline of the back and shoulder of Queen Khemā may be noticed in the reproduction,² but the other figures are obscure. In the original fresco, however, Rājā Saṃyama and some of his attendants can be discerned. The rājā is shown sitting on a cushion in an attitude of adoration, with both hands joined together, and raised towards the Divine Goose.