Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v3.c12.s19.18

v3.c12.s19.18

In the Shad-Danta Jātaka the lake is described as being surrounded by fields of lotuses of various hues, extending for several leagues.³ The painter has tried to indicate the abundance of lotus-growth by filling up the background of the lake-scene with lotus-flowers of various shapes and in different stages of bloom. The elephant, on account of its colossal size, peculiar form, and uncanny intelligence and habits, has been a favourite theme of the early Deccan painter and sculptor, and in this scene also the artist has used much imagination in depicting their trunks raised and twisted in a variety of forms. The Bodhisattva is easily recognized among the herd by his six tusks and large size. He is further bedecked with lotus-flowers, and his white skin sprinkled over with pollen.