For more than 1600 years, these beautiful ‘Sigiriya Damsels’ have remained silent, smiling enigmatically while making everyone who passes by spellbound.
About
Being one of the most renowned iconic paintings of Sri Lanka, ‘Sigiriya Damsels’ which is also called ‘Sigiri Apsaras’ is painted in a cavity inside the rock about 100m above the rock base. The women are only painted from the waist up with torsos appearing god-like from clouds.
How were the Sigiriya Frescoes Painted?
The technique used in these paintings was “fresco lustro”. Natural resources like sand, slaked lime, limestone and marble powder were beaten on to the wall using a flat stick. Only yellow, black, green, and red pigments were used.
Location
After an exhausting day climbing this awe-inspiring rock fortress, you can relax in a nearby Sigiriya hotel such as likes of Habarana Village by Cinnamon, from which the Sigiriya Rock is 20 minutes away. In addition, it provides access to a myriad of natural sights for your personal exploration.
Who are these damsels depicted in the paintings?
The prominent display of the 3 circled tattoos around each woman’s neck was to indicate that these ladies belong to the king. The sophisticated clothing and rich jewellery and the rendition of facial expressions were an indication that they differ from ordinary women.
Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media. Google+
