Ajanta Cave 2: Ceiling

INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad

This ceiling is in the main shrine. A lotus marks the center of the ceiling, surrounded by rings of decorative patterns and flying dwarves in the four corners.
The petals of the lotus are outlined in black, and the outer circle of pink indicates that it was originally painted in a red gradient. A ring containing a floral motif surrounds the lotus. A variety of flowers is painted in a compact and orderly fashion, with their branches and tendrils entangled. The outer ring consists of rectangular compartments divided by vertical bands, each compartment containing a different geometric or floral pattern. At each of the four corners is a dwarf who holds either an object or a tray of flowers. The dwarves wear short dhotis and large earrings, as well as arm, leg, and chest ornaments. The figures are given dimension through a skillful shading technique. Though the ceiling utilizes few colors, the integration of color and pattern produces a magnificent overall effect.