Sketch of a ship based on a mural in Ajanta Caves, ca. 6th century

A 6th-century AD mural from the Ajanta Caves depicts an ancient Indian ship with distinctive features, including a high stem and stern, three oblong sails attached to masts, and double quarter rudders. This sketch provides valuable insights into maritime technology of the period, particularly during the Chola Navy era. The study relies on visual analysis of historical murals, offering a rare glimpse into ancient ship design and naval architecture.

Editors of the JIOWS. (2026). Sketch of a ship based on a mural in Ajanta Caves, ca. 6th century. The Journal of Indian Ocean World Studies, 9(1-2). https://doi.org/10.26443/jiows.v9i1-2.218