Consider the following statements about Ajanta paintings : 1. The surface of the rock was coated with clay mixed with rice husk and gum and a coat of lime was applied over this. 2. The outline drawing was done first on the lime coating and colours were added subsequently. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

The Ajanta paintings were executed using a technique known as fresco-secco (or tempera), which differs from the true fresco technique. Both statements are historically accurate based on archaeological studies:

• Statement 1 is correct: The rock surface was prepared by applying a thick layer of mud or clay mixed with cow dung, rice husk, and vegetable fibers to act as a binding agent. This was then covered with a thin coat of lime plaster to provide a smooth, white surface for the artwork.
• Statement 2 is correct: The artists first drew the outline of the figures in red ochre (cinnabar) on the prepared lime surface. Once the layout was finalized, colors derived from natural minerals and plants (such as lapis lazuli and ochre) were filled in. Finally, the outlines were often re-defined to make the figures more prominent.