Round tray showing the Vessantara Jataka (inscribed)

The round inscribed plate depicts the story of the Vessantara jataka. According to legend the Bodhisattva, as a prince Vessantara was very much given to charity and the king of Kalinga, which was, sent some Brahmanas to beg for his favourite elephant who was supposed to have the power of bringing rain. The prayer was duly granted and prince Vessantara made a gift of his elephant. The painting has been done in black colour on red lacquered surface.