Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v3.c12.s19.9

v3.c12.s19.9

Commencing from the left, behind pillars 11-12 we notice a python encircling the trunk of a tree. He has caught one of the hind legs of an elephant, which is in great agony and through fear has excreted. In order to extricate himself from the python the elephant is struggling hard, and the painter, to show his desperate efforts, has drawn the animal with his head and trunk placed on the ground and his forelegs bent forward in a firm manner. Several elephants are seen coming to rescue their companion from the monster; their trunks are raised, indicating that they are shrieking in response to the cry of the attacked elephant for help. Above this scene an elephant is crushing an alligator which is lying on its back with its jaws wide open as if groaning through pain. The elephant has placed one of his fore-legs on the alligator and is exerting further pressure with his trunk.