Animal Figures found from Mosaic designs at Karagampitiya Subodharamaya

Abstract

The main objective of this research paper is to explicate about animal figures found in Sri Lankan mosaic designs with special reference to mosaics at Karagampitiya Subodharamaya. The methodology of this research paper consists with field research and library survey methods; field research method was highly emphasized to collect data. This temple has a great significance in terms of archaeological, anthropological, historical and art historical aspects. Karagampitiya Subodharamaya is located at Karagampitiya village in Dehiwala divisional secretariat which belongs to Colombo district in Western province. It has an extended history from the period of king Parakramabahu VI (1412 - 1467 AD) and it underwent several changes during the colonial period of Sri Lanka. A piece of art work created by placing coloured segments of tiles, porcelain, glass, stones and coins in a pattern to create a picture is called as Mosaic art. This art tradition has a ranged history from BC and in the world Mosaic art, developed in various periods according to the subject and features. Floral figures, animal figures, geometric shapes and some other objects which were created with mosaic art tradition could be seen at the Image house and at the Sathsathige. Among these mosaic designs at the image house; animal figures can be considered as a limited art historical source due to the used features, structures, colours and shapes. According to the collected data, it could be identified that both real and mythical animal figures; such as Tusker, Horse, Lion, Bull, Rabbit, Goat, Unicorn, Fish, Peacock, Parrot, Hen and Snake were designed using mosaic designs. These animal figures could be categorized as birds, quadruped, reptiles and fish. As per the main objective; foreign influences and special features of created animal figures, reasons for designed animal figures, present situation and reasons for weathering of mosaic designs are also discussed in this research paper.