2-999-834 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Vessantara Jataka, Chapter 11 (Maharaja), c1920-1940. Divine beings lead Jujaka to the palace of King Sanjaya, Vessantara's father. At first, the king is angry that Vessantara gave away his children, but they come to their father's defense. Relieved that his grandchildren are safe, the king gives Jujaka great riches, including a large palace. The children are cleaned up and dressed as royalty, and King Sanjaya sends his army to the forest to retrieve Vessantara and Maddi; the family is joyously reunited. The scene depicted here is the return of the children to the palace.