Who painted Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2) was painted by John Griffiths in 1874.

Where can I see Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2) is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2)?

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2) is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2)

John Griffiths , 1874

Copy of painting inside the caves of Ajanta (cave 2) is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist John Griffiths. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting is a 19th-century copy of an ancient mural from Cave 2, Ajanta, India, reproducing a scene from the Jatakas, stories about the Buddha's lives.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Vidyadhara, a celestial male-female pair dwelling above a rocky landscape, with the male figure holding a upward-pointing sword and a shield, symbolizing wisdom or charm.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the copy reflects a Realist approach, aiming for faithful representation of the original ancient artwork, which itself belongs to a much older, distinct stylistic tradition.

History & Provenance

Originally painted between 1st century BC and AD 480, the Ajanta mural was copied by John Griffiths (and Indian students from the Bombay School of Art) between 1872-1885, following the loss of earlier copies made by Major Robert Gill in a 1866 fire.

Context

The original painting is part of the Ajanta cave complex, discovered in 1819, featuring some of India's oldest surviving paintings, primarily illustrating Buddhist narratives.

Legacy

As a copy, this painting contributes to the preservation and dissemination of ancient Indian art, while the originals at Ajanta remain significant cultural and religious heritage sites.