The Sigiriya frescoes are among the most famous and captivating elements of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, in Sri Lanka. These ancient frescoes, painted during the reign of King Kashyapa I in the 5th century CE, are located on the western face of the massive rock fortress. They are one of the most significant surviving examples of ancient Sri Lankan art and are celebrated for their vibrant colors, intricate detail, and unique subject matter.
More Details – Sigiriya Lion’s Rock
Sigiriya Frescoes:
Key Features of the Sigiriya Frescoes:
- Subject Matter: The frescoes depict beautiful, bare-breasted women adorned with elaborate jewelry and flowing garments. These figures are often referred to as the “Sigiriya Maidens” or “Apsaras” (celestial nymphs), and they are shown in graceful, stylized poses, either carrying flowers or performing other symbolic actions. While the true identity of the women is debated, many historians believe that they may represent:
- Royal consorts or queens of King Kashyapa’s court.
- Celestial beings or nymphs from Buddhist mythology.
- Attendants or priestesses engaged in religious or ceremonial activities.
- Artistic Style: The frescoes are known for their distinctive artistic style, which reflects a combination of realism and idealism. The artists used a wet fresco technique (painting on wet plaster) to create smooth, flowing figures with soft curves. The women are depicted with elegant postures, detailed jewelry, and expressive faces, suggesting a high level of artistic skill.Colors used in the frescoes are primarily reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blacks, made from natural pigments. Despite being over 1,500 years old, many of the frescoes have retained their vibrant colors, a testament to the artistry and techniques of the ancient painters.
- Location: The frescoes are found about halfway up the rock face, in a protected niche that shelters them from the elements. Originally, it is believed that there may have been 500 figures painted along the rock face, but only around 19 remain today. These paintings are located near the Mirror Wall, a polished wall that was once so reflective that the king could see himself as he passed by.
- Symbolism: The symbolism of the frescoes is not entirely clear, but they are often seen as representations of fertility, beauty, and divinity. Some scholars suggest that the frescoes depict royal processions or figures connected to religious rites, while others believe they were meant to symbolize the heavenly maidens that are often depicted in Buddhist art, floating in the clouds.
- Cultural and Historical Importance: The frescoes are a unique aspect of Sri Lankan art and provide important insight into the artistic and cultural traditions of the time. They are also significant because they reflect the sophisticated taste of King Kashyapa, who sought to create a paradise on earth, blending art, nature, and architecture into one unified vision.
Conservation and Preservation:
Over the centuries, the frescoes have suffered damage from natural elements and human activity. In the 19th century, British explorers and archaeologists began to take an interest in Sigiriya, leading to the rediscovery of the frescoes. Since then, efforts have been made to conserve and protect them from further deterioration. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and measures are in place to limit the number of visitors and reduce the impact of environmental factors on the paintings.
Controversy and Interpretation:
The frescoes have been the subject of much debate and interpretation among scholars and art historians. While some believe that the women represent celestial nymphs (Apsaras), others argue that they could be Kashyapa’s queens or concubines, glorifying the king’s court. The precise purpose of the frescoes remains unclear, but they undoubtedly reflect the power, opulence, and artistic vision of King Kashyapa’s reign.
Day Tour Price to Sigiriya
- Day Tour & Transport Cost for Sigiriya:
From Colombo Start from 95 USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
From Sigiriya Start from 60USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
Private tour in an A/C car or van with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 8 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar - Included – Entrance Tickets, Refreshment, Transport
- Entrance ticket fee for Sigiriya Lion’s Rock – Ticket price for each place US$ 35 / EUR 31 / GBP 26) per foreign adult and US$ 17 / EUR 16 / GBP 13 ticket price per foreign child of age 05 – 12 years are applicable.