Who painted Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1) was painted by Robert Gill in 1856.

Where can I see Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1) is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1) is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1)

Robert Gill , 1856

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 1) is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Robert Gill. It dates from 1856 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This oil painting is a copy of a mural from Cave 1 at Ajanta, India.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting is a copy of a mural from Cave 1 at Ajanta, India. It reproduces a 2,000-year-old Buddhist scene, capturing the serene and joyful atmosphere of the original.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a Bodhisattva, a spiritual being on the path to enlightenment, holding a white lily in a mountainous landscape. The surrounding scene is filled with birds, monkeys, happy couples, and celestial musicians, conveying a sense of peace and joy, and illustrating a story from the Buddha's past lives.

History & Provenance

The Ajanta cave complex was rediscovered in 1819. In 1844, Major Robert Gill was commissioned to copy the murals. Most of his copies were lost in a fire at the Crystal Palace in 1866. This painting is one of four surviving examples held by the V&A.