Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s8.7

v2.c8.s8.7

The other subject (Plate XVIII *a*) is painted on the front of the pilaster, and represents a *Yakṣa* (? or a rājā) and his consort. The poses of both these figures show ease combined with grace. The *Yakṣa* is squatting with legs crossed, and his elbows resting on them. His right arm is bent, and he has made a loop with his forefinger and thumb, while the palm of his hand is exposed, and the gesture of his other fingers indicates absorption in deep thought. The left hand of the *Yakṣa* is hanging towards the ground in an indifferent manner, perhaps to confirm the impression given of a meditative mood. The head of the figure is broken, so that the expression of the face cannot be studied. The drawing of the waist, showing the curves of the muscles in a slightly inclined pose, is realistic. Among the ornaments the design of the buckle-pattern chain round the neck of the *Yakṣa* is worthy of notice.