An Introduction to the Ajantā Caves

Book excerpt: This book presents the latest and updated information about the Ajanta caves, their histories, and painted themes. For the first time, a book accommodates-within the space of a single volume-many dimensions and components of the caves. It includes the latest research by the author on the gradual development of the caves. historical framework formulated by Walter M. Spink. identifications of the narrative paintings by Dieter Schlingloff. identifications of the devotional and ornamental paintings by Monika Zin. summaries of nearly all the narrative paintings (84 stories). corpus of photo documentation on the paintings, sculptures, and architecture. attempt on long exposure photography in poorly lit conditions. The language is so crafted as to help the students, travellers, and general readers grasp the beauty and complexities of Ajanta and the times. At the same time the content is so packed, and the issues discussed in such a manner, as to keep the expert readers engaged.