04/14/2017 Diana Chou
For centuries, Sri Lanka was celebrated for the sophistication of its ivory carving, primarily small figural sculpture and combs. With the arrival of Portuguese and Dutch traders in the seventeenth century, Sri Lankan ivory carvers began to create objects for new European markets. The sinuous floral vines decorating the surface of this container represent the style of motifs developed at this time. Its exact function is unknown, but it may have held cosmetics.
Last Updated: 4/14/2017