Mediaeval Sinhalese Art c10.s2.15

c10.s2.15

were more than one image, the same process was repeated for each, also for the images of gods, if any; but no ceremony was needed in the case of representations of human beings, as, for example, if the patron were represented on the walls. The purpose of the mirror was to receive the glance (belma) of the image*; and similarly the indrakila acted as a scapegoat, like the scarecrow (pambaya) in a rice-field which serves not only to frighten birds, but to avert the effects of the evil eye by receiving the glance. As soon as the work was done the painter drew the vahantarāva over his eyes, and thus blindfolded, was led out and up to a vessel of water already prepared. Here he washed his head, repeating the ashtaka