Main Shrine J13 with Sarvanubhuti and Ambika Flanking Entrance
Flanking the main Jina shrine of cave J13 on floor 1 of the Indra Sabha complex are the sculptures of the male yaksha Sarvanubhuti and female yakshi Ambika. While being protectors of the teachings of the Jina, both represent aspects of prosperity, fecundity and fertility. Ambika, whose sculptures start appearing from the 5th-6th centuries, is depicted with full round breasts, holding a branch of or seated under a mango tree laden with fruit, with a child in her lap or standing by her side. Her vehicle is the lion. The male yaksha is potbellied and sits on an elephant. He is seated under a banyan tree and holds a citron and a mongoose- skin purse to keep coins. This pair appears often amongst the Jain deities at Ellora.
- Created: 9th-10th centuries
- Attribution: Photo: Arno Klein