________________
158
JAIN JOURNAL
This is a typical two-wheeled carriage with two bullocks, known as veladun* in Saurashtra This type of carriages were common in Saurashtra and Kutch upto the first decade of this century and the advent of automobiles put them out of fashion.
The veladun is carved with minute details in this panel. The construction of the bridge joining yoke with the cart proper and assembly of the wheel and axis are depicted very graphically with utmost care. The rathikā is constructed with domed roof having a projection like trunk of an elephant over the head of the cartman. A rhomboid jäliwork on both the sides of rathika is delicately carved,
The cartman is seated on the bridge joining yoke with the cart proper. He is holding reins in his right hand and a whip in his left hand. He wears izăr and a shirt. A kamarabandha at the waist is with one end resting on the right thigh. His right foot is broken. It appears that his turban is very simple and close-fitted.
of the two figures in the veladun, one is a Śreşthi and the other appears to be his child. The pațakā and armlet of the Śresthi are carved very boldly. There is no trace of uttariya. He is holding the child firmly in his lap. Being a very small figure there are no traces of costume or any other ornament on the body of the child. But, an attempt has been made to suggest eyes and nose roughly.
The way in which the bullocks are carved suggests that they are trying to stop the carriage in front of derāsara. They are having short horns and small ears. The first bullock is carved in high relief while second one is suggested in low relief at the rear. The forehead of the first bullock is full of decorations and the neck is adorned with chain of small round bells.
A very interesting figure in this panel is that of a monkey seated on the cornice of the roof. The figure is shown facing veladun of Sresthi. The carpenter has placed this animal in such a way as if it is welcoming the incoming veladun. Its peculiar position in the composition draws our attention towards the veladun in which an important person is seated. This small figure of a monkey has not only added a humorous touch to the theme of the panel but also shows the minute observation of the wood carver who has created this piece of art.
•
Vellaga (Desya) > Vehal> Veladun - a covered carriage.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
