Textile Industry of Ancient Sri Lanka

Abstract

Textile Industry could be identified as one of highly valued industries in ancient Sri Lanka. The origin of the Textile Industry is indefinite. But there is adequate proof that this industry was been in existence during the period of various civilizations of different country. The first example of textile appears from the Neolithic period. Only Linen clothes were produced in Egypt. Information and paintings regarding the production of Linen are illustrated in most of the grave yards and machines made of timber have been used for weaving textiles from the ancient times. It has been revealed from archaeological excavations carried out on pre- historic civilizations in Indo River valleys that prior to the arrival of Aryans, people living in India have been using unstitched clothing in the from shawls covering the body. Factors regarding clothing in Sri Lanka is very scarce. According to chronicles and inscriptions, there is proof that people of Sri Lanka have been engaged with textile industry during the period prior to the Christian era earliest sources are not available regarding any of the attire used by prince by Vijaya or Kuveni. It could be implied that people of his island may have been making their own clothing at the time of the arrival of Aryans too. The objective of this study in related to the nature of ancient textile industry during the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa period.