Ajanta: The Colour and Monochrome Reproductions of the Ajanta Frescoes Based on Photography v4.c16.s19.17

v4.c16.s19.17

Apart from the identification of the historical and legendary personages which has been attempted above, since the assemblage on both sides of the Buddha’s chair portrays in an illuminating manner the pomp and glory of kings, the various elements of the population, and the religious attitude of the people, it will perhaps be of interest to the reader if the painting is described in some detail. Beginning from the left side, almost in the middle of the fresco, two elephants may be noticed who have raised their trunks to adore the Great Being. The heads of the elephants have been drawn with great care; the large, fan-shaped ears, the small, twinkling eyes, and the great waving trunks all combine to present an imposing picture of the extraordinary features of the animal. To add to the majestic appearance of these elephants the artist has decorated their foreheads and necks with pearl and gold ornaments and placed tufts of hair of yak's tail over their ears. There are six men on the backs of the elephants who appear to be the drivers and keepers, since none of them is wearing a crown or is dressed in a style suitable to the dignity of a prince or a chief. The two men in front, who are probably *mahāvats*, are saluting the Buddha. Behind the elephants there are some soldiers of the escort who hold poles with long flags and tassels. Three spears may also be noticed which have banners attached to them. Near the trunks of the elephants are two attendants, one of whom holds the royal umbrella.