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Consider the following statements about Ajanta Caves.
1. The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting
2. There was an absence of red colour in the paintings
3. The figures in these caves demonstrate idealism
Choose from the following options.
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    1 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 only
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
Consider the following statements about Ajanta Caves. 1. The figures ...
  • The Ajanta caves were inscribed by the Buddhist monks under the patronage of the Vakataka kings - Harishena being a prominent one. 
  • The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting and demonstrate considerable naturalism. 
  • The colours were obtained from local vegetation and minerals. The outlines of the paintings were done in red colour and then the inside was painted. 
  • One of the striking features is the absence of blue colour in the paintings. Cave No. 16 is one of the most elegant specimens of cave architecture. 
  • The paintings are generally themed around Buddhism - the life of Buddha and Jataka stories.
  • Of the 29 caves, 5 were developed during the Hinayana phase while the remaining 24 were developed during the Mahayana phase of Buddhism.
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Consider the following statements about Ajanta Caves. 1. The figures ...
Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, India, are a series of Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments that date back to the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE. These caves are known for their exquisite paintings and sculptures, which provide insights into the artistic and cultural history of ancient India. Let's examine the given statements about the Ajanta Caves in detail.

1. The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting
Fresco painting is a technique where water-based pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the colors to penetrate the surface and become an integral part of the wall. However, the paintings in the Ajanta Caves were not done using fresco painting. Instead, they were executed using the "dry fresco" technique, also known as tempera. In this technique, pigments are mixed with a binder, such as gum or egg yolk, and applied to dry plaster. This method allows for finer details and a wider range of colors compared to traditional frescoes.

2. There was an absence of red color in the paintings
This statement is incorrect. The paintings in the Ajanta Caves exhibit a wide range of colors, including red. The artists used various pigments derived from minerals and plants to create vibrant and lifelike representations of the depicted figures and scenes. Red pigments were commonly used for clothing, jewelry, and architectural elements in the paintings.

3. The figures in these caves demonstrate idealism
Idealism in art refers to the representation of figures in a perfected or idealized form, often deviating from realistic proportions. The figures in the Ajanta Caves do demonstrate idealism, with a focus on portraying the spiritual and celestial realms. The artists aimed to embody the divine qualities of the depicted beings, such as the Buddha and Bodhisattvas, through their artistic renditions. The figures are often depicted with elongated limbs, serene expressions, and graceful postures, emphasizing their transcendent nature.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct statements about the Ajanta Caves are:
1. The figures in these caves were done using the dry fresco technique, not traditional fresco painting.
3. The figures in these caves demonstrate idealism, portraying the divine qualities of the depicted beings.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C' - 1 only.
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Consider the following statements about Ajanta Caves. 1. The figures in these caves were done using fresco painting2. There was an absence of red colour in the paintings3. The figures in these caves demonstrate idealismChoose from the following options.a) 1 and 2 onlyb) 1 and 3 onlyc) 1 onlyd) All of the aboveCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
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