Ritual Symbolism and Sacred Placement of the Sapu Flower inKandyan-Era Temple Murals: A Visual Analysis of Ritual Hierarchy and Theological Meaning in the Kandy District, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Temple murals in Sri Lanka from the Kandyan period are visual representations of Buddhist phenomenon. Their use of color, line, shapes, and spatial disposition is considered divine. In this phenomenon, the Sapu flower is of particular ritual importance and symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and devotion. Despite the motif’s prominence, the ritual context of its placement and its aesthetic characteristics have been little scrutinised. This paper employs a visual semiotic and aesthetic–phenomenological approach to Sapu motifs in seven temples. The temples are in the Kandy District and include: Danthure, Diyakelinawala Kithsiri Mewan, Sooriyagoda, Hindagala, Degaldoruwa, Medawala, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa). High-resolution photographs were analyzed through a matrix of placement, manifestation type, color, line work, and other associated flower motifs. Patterns were derived, and relationships were established between visual elements and the underlying theology. Sapu motifs were mostly located in ritual proximity to figures of the Buddha, bhikkhus, deities, royal patrons, and pagodas, while their decorative usage was almost non-existent. All temples presented the flower in a naturalistic style, which supported canonical fidelity. The prevailing colours of yellow and golden yellow were understood to symbolize enlightenment, while white was associated with purity, and earthy red with spiritual grounding. The thin, rhythmic lines suggested some monastic discipline and meditative calm. Lotus and Sapu, along with other floral motifs such as Na, Wetakeyya, and Parasathu, ranked lower. Sapu, as depicted, is considered a ritual and theological emblem, rather than an ornamental feature. Its positioned placement, natural depiction, and lack of chromatic and linear vitality support Kandy as the ritual and artistic center of Sri Lankan Buddhist muralism.