Pottery is one of the oldest handicrafts in Sri Lanka. The primarily useful character of Sri Lankan pottery has been continuing to exist since the very beginning of Sinhala civilization. The simplicity of ornamentation and charm of the elegance of pottery have held fast in the Island since pre-history. Pots are made of clay. Pottery is a living craft that relates very much to the life of Sri Lanka. Small votive lamps, graceful water jugs, decorative ornaments and various cooking vessels of clay are very popular.

Even though there are many new ideas in this field many potters. Still employ traditional methods are made on rotations disk that the pottery keeps turning. It’s called a potter’s wheel. It is a fast turning wheel. A lump of clay is placed on this wheel and then the potter forms a pot by turning the lumps of clay. Decoration to the pot is done by incising patterns or stamping with dyes while the clay is still wet. Most pots are fired in a primitive kiln built of bricks or stones. It is covered with a wattle and daub roof. Pottery is now used mostly for decoration. Saucepans have replaced the clay pot in most homes.

(ST/KH)