Page 272 - Proceedings book

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Another notable example of mosaic art's influence on stūpa architecture can be

observed at the Shailatalarama Vihāra in Kalutara (Photograph No.09). The
Shailatalarama Vihāra is located on the banks of the Kalu Ganga in Uduwara-

Anguruwatota village, Kalutara District. Katupotha (2011) stated that the temple was
established in 2434 BE (1890 CE). The building housing the Buddha image was

constructed in 1901, and it holds architectural value for both Buddhists and Christians.

The wall paintings, images, and architecture of the pagoda have historical and cultural
significance (Katupotha, 2011: 205).

Photograph No. 09

Shailatalarama Vihāra

At the Shailatalarama Vihāra, the railing surrounding the octagonal stūpa compound

is decorated with mosaic art (Photograph No.10 & 11). The short pillars associated
with the four entrances of the stūpa maluva are also decorated with mosaic art. Three

sides of each short pillar are adorned with mosaic, featuring simple geometric shapes.
The railing around the stūpa compound is decorated with mosaic art, though it does

not include any decorative designs. Currently, most of the porcelain fragments have

been destroyed, and some parts of the mosaic art have weathered due to the
application of white paint.

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