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Ajanta Cave 26: Niche Sculptures
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Ajanta Cave 26: Niche Sculptures
INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad; circa mid-to-late 5th century; Stone
These square niches are along the right wall of the main hall and contain varied arrangements of Buddhas flanked by attendants or other Buddhas.
The central Buddha seen here is seated with legs pendent. His hands form the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra and his feet rest upon a lotus pedestal supported by two naga kings. The flanking Buddhas make the varada (wish-granting) mudra with their right hands and hold vases in their left hands.
Standing and seated Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are carved upon the walls surrounding the niches. All of the Buddhas have prominent usnisas, curly hair, round faces, and broad shoulders, typical characteristics of the Gupta style. |
