A Study on the Relationship between Maduwanwela Walauwa and Panamure Kraal: In Art Historical Aspect

Abstract

The main objective of this research paper is to explicate the relationship between Maduwanwela Walauwa and Panamure Kraal in art historical aspect, with special reference to mosaics and stone carvings. The methodology used to collect data for this research paper consists of field research method and library survey method. Maduwanwela Walauwa is highly significant from archaeological, historical and art historical aspects. Maduwanwela Walauwa is located at Maduwanwela village in Kolonna divisional secretariat which belongs to Ratnapura district in Sabaragamuwa province. This Walauwa has extended history from the reign of King Vimaladharmasooriya II who reigned in Kandyan period (1700 AD). Similarly, the Panamure Kraal has a ranged historical background from the period of 1880’s. There were several elephants and tuskers at the Panamure Kraal, and it is a famous Kraal in Sri Lanka. According to history, Panamure Kraal is directly related to Maduwanwela Walauwa. Mosaics at chanting hall and the front of the doors, and stone carvings at front of the doors of this Walauwa highly emphasize the figures of elephants and tuskers, which are limited art historical sources in Sri Lanka. Those mosaics and stone carvings represent the relationship between Maduwanwela Walauwa and Panamure Kraal. According to the main objective, historical background of Maduwanwela Walauwa and Panamure Kraal, introduction to mosaic art and stone carvings, and present situation of art historical evidences at Maduwanwela Walauwa are also described through this research paper.