Mediaeval Sinhalese Art c11.s1.80

c11.s1.80

In certain cases, e.g., Fig. 34, III. and V., the lotus petals are replaced by forms which are historically cobra heads, as can be proved by comparison with medallions at Barāhat.[†] PALĀ-PETI. *Pala-peti* is a form of ornament derived directly from the lotus; it is much employed in Sinhalese art, and in all Indian art; it is a border or moulding (Fig. 37), consisting of lotus petals, the petals fully seen, alternating with petals three-parts hidden by those on either side of them, precisely as in the ordinary representations of the whole flower. In the case of circular objects, such as metal dishes and vessels, sandal-wood grinding stones, etc., the form at once suggests the lotus flower, and the petal ornament follows; thence it has been adapted as a border applicable to straight work of every description, particularly architectural mouldings. Innumerable examples of its use are illustrated in the present book (Pl. XLII., 1 and 3, etc., etc.) It is sometimes greatly elaborated with *liya-pata* ornament (Fig. 39, M), but the simple forms are the most beautiful.