The Façade of Cave 19 Ajanta

Place of OriginAjanta, Maharashtra state, India

Date1875-1900

MaterialsAlbumen silver print

DimensionsH. 8 1/4 in x W. 6 3/8 in, H. 21.0 cm x W. 16.2 cm

Credit LineFrom the Collection of William K. Ehrenfeld, M.D.

Object number2005.64.468

DepartmentSouth Asian Art

ClassificationsPhotography

On View

Not on view

More Information

India is home to many monuments spanning centuries and representing different religions. The Buddhist caves at Ajanta were "rediscovered" by a British officer in 1819. The site, which had been in disuse for centuries, consists of a series of caves carved out into the cliff. Built in the 400s, Cave 19 is the most ornate of the worship halls. Some of its Buddha images were part of the original work; others were added as pious donations.