Sri Lanka Handcraft Of Distinction

Sri lanka has a rich and varied heritage of traditional arts and crafts. The products of age -old techniques, tool and of natural , indigenous raw materials, Sri lanka's handcrafts are fashioned in the cottages of craftsmen and women or in rural craft centers and incorporate a legacy of centuries of inbred skill. The ancient indo-Aryan social system of Sri Lanka assigned certain trades and pursuits to specific economic groups or castes, It was within these castes that traditional skills were preserved with a high degree of purity and a distinct ethnic identity. With increasing demand from export markets, Sri Lankan handcrafts have been able to successfully combine certain modern trends in design and colour choices with traditional craftsmanship to produce exquisite handcrafts which are much sought after.

Sri lanka handcrafts display an interesting degree of regional specialisation based largely on occurrence of the natural raw materials used as well as historical factors such as royal patronage in the past and demand patterns.

Traditional handcrafts have distinctively vivid colour combination (mainly red, green, yellow , and black) and vigorous and bold design - such as makara(mythical dragon) , hansa (swan), sinha(lion) , elephant , lotus and foliage. The varied and fascinating range include.

Silverware

A speciality of the Kandyan (highland) province. Exquisitely carved, chased and filigree work items include Jewellery, trays, trinket boxes, tea and desk sets, candle-stands, cutlery and ash-trays. Sterling silver as well as plated were is available.

Brass work

Also mainly localised in the Kandyan provinces. Cast or wrought brass ware items ornamented with fine carving. Silver or copper inlays and demesne, include boxes, trays, lampshades, lamp-stands, hinges, mountings,vases,statuettes, figurines and oil- lamps.

Dumbara Mat-Work

The Dumbara Vally of the Kandyan highlands is the center of this highly localised craft. The base fiber which is obtained from the niyanda plant is woven in to distinctive age-old designs. the range of items comprises mats,bags,room-dividers, table-mats, screens, and cushion-covers.

Lacquer Ware

Another highly localised craft especially around Hapuvuda, Laggala and Ukuwela areas of the Kandyan highlands. The 'lac' pigments were traditionally obtained from insect resins collected from forests. The Boiled - down lacquer is applied expertly by finger-nail or with a revolving lathe. The range includes walking-sticks, book-ends,ash-trays, letter-openers, wooden handles and small tables.

Demon masks

A specialised craft of the southern province, these masks were originally (and still are), used in demon propitiation and curative rituals. They make colourful and dramatic decor items and are available in a range of sizes from miniature to outsize.

Batik

Colourful, dramatic fabrics, designer garments, accessories and decor items in a wax-resist dyeing technique of Indonesian origin but distinctly Ceylon design.

Hand loom textiles.

A handcraft with ancient roots, hand loom woven cotton and silk textiles have seen a major revival recently. vivid colours and attractive textures and weaves make them popular choices for furnishing, accessories and in Ceylon's burgeoning garment industry.

Lace

Exquisite hand- made pillow, crochet and tatting lace is vary much a southern speciality, introduced in the 10th century by Portuguese colonisers. A part from collars, table linen and doilies, it is also available in lengths.

Drums and Musical instruments.

A wide range of traditional drums and flutes.

Pottery.

Low - fired terra-cotta domestic pottery, goblets, tiles, vases, ornaments and toys.

Wood- carving

Yet another ancient craft. Exquisite wall plaques, ornaments, occasional tables, paper knives and spoons.

Miscellaneous items

paper mac he costume dolls, embroidered garments and linen.