Cave XXI. is a monastery with the verandah nearly destroyed; but the elaborate ornamentation of the pilasters at either extremity, indicates the same richness and style of carving as in Cave I. At each end is a neat open chapel, separated from the verandah by two pillars of elegant design, with corresponding pilasters. In these, the falling leaf is introduced over the bowl of the capital. The frieze above is divided into three compartments by dwarf pilasters, and is carved with the “jewel pattern,”-one of the most typical ornaments of the seventh century. The hall, 51 feet 6 inches by 51 feet, has chambers, with pillared fronts in the middle and at the ends of the side aisles, each leading into an inner cell. There are four other cells on each side of the cave; and the pillars in front of the chapels at the back are ornamented by some very good carving and devices. ” The introduction of these six cells, each with its antechamber, adorned with two pillars in antis, gives a variety to the plan of this cave, and adds to its interior a richness of architectural decoration.” The roof of the hall is supported by twelve columns, ornamented in a style similar to that in Cave II., but of a heavier type, though not too massive for their position. The entrance to the shrine is unfinished The image sits cross-legged, has huge ears, and is attended by chauri-bearers with high ornate tiaras, and holding fruits or offerings in their hands. [Large pieces of roof-painting in the front and back aisles are still fairly distinct ; and geometric patterns are the most common among them. The insides of the brackets are decorated with two bands of brick-red, and flowers in white and brown. The roof of the central hall has a portion of a painting. On the left wall are two figures of Buddha; and to the left of these are two very fair female figures.]
