A History of Fine Art in India and Ceylon, from the Earliest Times to the Present Day c9.s2.118

c9.s2.118

The second example is the reputed portrait of King Bhātika Abhaya (Batiya Tissa), who reigned during the first century of the Christian era. It was found near the Ruwanveli *dāgaba*, and has been set up, after undergoing repair. The material is hard dolomite, much weather-worn, and the height is about 8 feet. The dress of the figure resembles that of another statue commonly believed to represent King Dutthagāmini, which stands on the terrace of the Ruwanveli *dāgaba*, and has been published by Mr. Havell. It seems probable that these works represent saints or religious teachers rather than kings. Both are old, but it is difficult to find reasons for more exact determination of their age.²