Bagan Temple 315: Illustrations of Jataka Tales

MYANMAR, Mandalay, Bagan; Bagan Empire

Based on what remains of the inscription, this painting from Bagan Temple 315 depicts scenes from the Jataka tales. The painting is divided horizontally into five rows. The first and fifth rows are better preserved than those in the middle. In the center of the first row, Svetaketu Bodhisattva sits in full lotus position on a raised platform, wearing a monastic robe that covers both shoulders. The hands form a mudra. Two disciples stand to the sides and face each other with joined palms. Beside the platform, more disciples are shown sitting or standing, facing the Bodhisattva. On the left, another Bodhisattva sits under a tree and teaches the Dharma.
To the right of center in the fifth row, there is a king riding an elephant towards two buildings. In the first building there is a raksasi eating a human, and in the other building there is a Bodhisattva. Three devotees sit outside the second building and join their palms in reverence. The content of the second, third, and fourth rows is difficult to discern due to damage. The fragments show figures with nimbuses listening to a Bodhisattva teach the Dharma.
The figures are outlined in red or black ink. Yellow, brown, green, and blue pigments add color to the painting. The narrative, which proceeds horizontally, exemplifies a popular style in ancient India seen in the arts of Nepal, Bangladesh, and Andhra Pradesh.