Ajanta Cave 1: Padmapani and Vajrapani Bodhisattvas

INDIA, Maharashtra, Aurangabad

These two figures flank the doorway to the antechamber. On the left of the doorway is Padmapani Bodhisattva, and on the right is Vajrapani Bodhisattva. Both are tall and beautifully adorned with elaborate headdresses and jewelry. They stand with their heads slightly inclined and their eyes are lowered, as in a state of profound introspection. They both wear patterned dhotis and stand in tribhanga pose.
Padmapani Bodhisattva, with pale skin and a gentle smile, is adorned with a pointed headdress and holds a lotus in front of the chest Attendants, kinnaras, apsaras, peacocks, monkeys, and vegetation surround the Bodhisattva, creating a lively and pleasant atmosphere.
Vajrapani Bodhisattva holds a vajra and has dark skin and a solemn face. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress containing three Buddha figures. The gold on the garments worn by Vajrapani and the surrounding figures shines brilliantly, adding magnificence to this spectacular image.