Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v2.c8.s9.19

v2.c8.s9.19

To describe the subject in detail. We notice a rājā and a rānī (Śuddhodana and Mahā- Māyā) sitting on a throne. The delineation of both these figures is exquisite, the outline being firm, the limbs well modelled, and the colouring beautiful. To a stern critic, some parts of the figure of Mahā-Māyā may betray a lack of proportion. For example, the relation of the girth of the arm to the well-developed bust might be criticized. But in such cases Indian artists have always been carried away by idealistic perceptions of beauty, and do not attach much attention to their proportion in natural form. The general effect is, however, not marred by these exaggerations, and the figure on the whole is a superb piece of Indian art, showing fine conception, perfect technique, and highly developed decorative sense. The slight inclination of the head, combined with the curves of the arm and the waist, has resulted in a wonderful pose, while the black coils of her hair and pearl jewellery, adding warmth and lustre to the soft brown skin, present a delightful colour effect.