The Art Of Masks.

 The Art Of Masks.

                The art of masks can be considered as a cultural icon in Sri Lankan culture since ancient times. Legends prove there is a long history of this art in Sri Lanka. 

    The beginning of the art of Masks.

                        The king " Maha Sammatha" is one of the great kings in the history. When his queen became pregnant she had a great desire (Doladuka) . The king tired his best to satisfy this "Doladuka" but was unsuccessful. The god "Upulwan" saw this and carved  masks from wood called "Rukkaththana" and left them in the royal park. Later the queen's "Doladuka" was fulfilled by having a "kolam" dance using these masks.

                The craft of mask making was started in Ambalangoda area. In the past masks were carved of wood called "Rukkaththana" and painted with brushes made of pus coir. In present these decorative masterpieces are carved of light and durable wood of "Kaduru". These masks are used in exorcism rituals called "devil dancing" or "thovil", dramatic adaptations and dancing performances. Specially these masks take a prominent place in "Kolam" dances.

                    There are three different types of mask categories. They are,

1. Kolam Masks
2. King Masks
3. Raksha Masks                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               These masks are used for various purposes both in past and present. So these should be considered as masterpieces with archeological value and we all should try to keep them protected.