A tangible testament to amazing Sri Lankan craftsmanship, the cultural masks of Sri Lanka are the very embodiments of the true depth of our roots. Bearing witness to the abounding talent of Sri Lanka artists, these colourful masks elaborately carved out of the softest of woods are the ultimate collectors’ items. Looking at these masterpieces of Sri Lanka arts, one can plainly see that Sri Lankan artists are gifted indeed. These masks depicting mythical creatures usually take on a combination of animals and humans, thereby creating a formidable demonic form. Popularly used in exorcising ceremonies called thovil, these masks are meant to ward off all evil and demons who have taken possession of humans thereby making them feel better again. Handcrafted and hand painted, the amount of work that has gone into these magnificent specimen of cultural and mythological phenomena is evident by the elaborate designs that they portray.
Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.