A Study of the Concept of the Socialised “Naga” as Reflected in Sri Lankan Art (Based on Engravings & Sculptures)

Abstract

Cobras are worshipped because of their power in the reptile known as “Naga”. This Naga image is reflected in the Sinhalese social - culture and Buddhist philosophy. Many Naga concepts based on Naga’s can be seen. That is the image of the cobra represents fire, water, rain, energy, sex, wisdom, hatred, wealth, power, lust, prosperity, protection, superiority, time, health hygiene& greatness. As a tribal symbol representing a certain group of people. The artist has been able to Coney some philosophical ideas to the world through the concept of the serpent added to the sculpture. In what way is the image of the snake, which has been socialized based on various expressive? The research problem is the meanings symbolized by the art of cravings and sculpture. The main purpose of this research is to identify the characteristics of the naga concept based on the nature of socialized concepts in art and sculpture and craving art. expected to study the primary data under the qualitative research method and conduct the research through secondary and tertiary data. It is recognized that there are a large number of designs symbolizing the serpent in Buddhist and Hindu sculpture from ancient times to modern times. These designs appear i various contexts. The influence of the cobra image is particularly strong on cravings and sculptures. Based on the Muragala, Vahalkada, Koravakgala&MakaraThorana. This information about the influence of the naga concept sculpture and engravings art could be confirmed by determining the meanings based on the inclusion of the snake image in each craving. It is possible to recognize the tendency of the artist to represent the concept of socialization through art.