스리랑카 전통 도자기 Traditional Pottery of Sri Lanka

 

 

스리랑카의 전통 도자기는 오랜 역사를 가진 공예품으로, 그 기원은 기원전 2세기까지 거슬러 올라간다. 이 도자기는 스리랑카의 문화와 사회에 깊이 뿌리내려 있으며, 다양한 지역에서 독특한 방식으로 발전해왔다. 본 논문에서는 스리랑카 전통 도자기의 역사와 기원, 특징, 주요 제작 지역, 제작 과정, 현대적 발전과 보존, 그리고 사회적 의미에 대해 고찰하고자 한다.

 

역사와 기원

스리랑카의 도자기 역사는 기원전 2세기로 거슬러 올라가며, 이는 고고학적 발굴을 통해 입증되었다. 아누라다푸라와 캔디 등의 지역에서 발견된 도자기 유물들은 스리랑카 초기 역사에서 도자기가 널리 사용되었음을 보여준다[4]. 특히, 캔디 시대에는 연꽃 무늬로 장식된 도자기가 제작되었으며, 이는 당시의 예술적 감각을 반영한다[2]. 스리랑카의 도자기는 초기부터 실용적인 목적과 장식적인 목적 모두를 위해 사용되었으며, 이는 오늘날까지 이어지고 있다[1][3].

 

특징

스리랑카 전통 도자기의 주요 특징은 그 실용성과 심미성이다. 주로 조리용 그릇, 물병, 장식용 화병 등이 제작되며, 이러한 제품들은 대개 간결한 디자인을 특징으로 한다[1]. 또한, 스리랑카 도자기는 주로 붉은 점토로 만들어지며, 이는 강도와 내구성을 높이기 위해 다른 재료들과 혼합된다[3]. 최근에는 장식용 도자기의 수요가 증가함에 따라 유약 처리와 색상 패턴이 추가되어 더욱 다양한 제품이 생산되고 있다[1][2].

 

주요 제작 지역

스리랑카의 도자기 산업은 전국적으로 분포되어 있으며, 특히 나탄디야, 데디야웰라, 보랄라스가무와 및 미티야고다 지역에서 활발하다[4]. 이러한 지역들은 점토 자원이 풍부하여 전통적인 도자기 마을이 형성되었다. 몰라고다와 같은 작은 마을에서는 여전히 전통적인 방식으로 도자기를 제작하는 장인을 볼 수 있다[6].

 

제작 과정

전통적인 스리랑카 도자기 제작 과정은 여러 단계를 거친다. 먼저 점토를 준비하여 물과 함께 반죽한 후 일정 기간 숙성시킨다. 이후 물레를 사용하여 원하는 형태로 빚고 건조시킨다. 마지막으로 전통 가마에서 구워내어 완성한다. 이 과정에서 장인들은 오랜 경험을 바탕으로 적절한 온도와 시간을 조절하여 품질을 유지한다[4][2].

 

현대적 발전과 보존

현대에 들어 스리랑카의 도자기 산업은 지속 가능한 발전을 위해 다양한 변화를 겪고 있다. 정부는 'Saubagyaye Dekma' 프로그램을 통해 도예가들의 지위를 향상시키고 그들의 제품을 친환경적으로 홍보하고 있다[3]. 또한, 현대적 디자인과 기술이 결합되어 전통과 현대의 조화를 이루고 있다. 이러한 노력은 스리랑카 도자기의 국제적 경쟁력을 높이는 데 기여하고 있다[5][7].

 

사회적 의미

스리랑카의 도자기는 단순한 공예품을 넘어 사회적 및 경제적 의미를 지닌다. 이는 지역 사회의 경제를 지원하고 문화적 정체성을 강화하는 역할을 한다. 특히 소규모 및 중소기업(SME) 형태로 운영되는 도자기 산업은 지역 사회에 중요한 수입원을 제공하며 지속 가능한 발전에 기여하고 있다[5][7].

 

결론

스리랑카 전통 도자기는 오랜 역사와 독특한 문화를 반영하는 중요한 공예품이다. 그 제작 과정과 기술은 세대를 거쳐 전승되어 왔으며, 현대에도 여전히 중요한 경제적 및 문화적 가치를 지니고 있다. 앞으로도 이러한 전통이 지속적으로 보존되고 발전되기를 기대한다.

 

참고문헌

1. SAARC Cultural Centre. "Handicrafts."
2. Asia InCH. "Earthenware of Sri Lanka."
3. Explore Sri Lanka. "The History of Pottery."
4. Wikipedia. "Pottery of Sri Lanka."
5. Indonesian Journal of Agricultural Research.
6. Aartzy. "Traditional Arts and Crafts of Sri Lanka."
7. ResearchGate. "Factors Influencing the Pottery Industry in Sri Lanka."

Citations:
[1] https://saarcculture.org/handicrafts-7/
[2] https://asiainch.org/craft/earthenware/
[3] https://exploresrilanka.lk/the-history-of-pottery/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottery_of_Sri_Lanka
[5] https://talenta.usu.ac.id/InJAR/article/view/13473
[6] https://www.aartzy.com/aartzest/traditional-arts-and-crafts-of-sri-lanka-6288
[7] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378950522_Enhancing_Small_and_Medium_Scale_Enterprises_Sustainability_Factors_Influencing_the_Pottery_Industry_in_Sri_Lanka

 

Traditional Arts and Crafts of Sri Lanka - Aartzy

 

Enhancing Small and Medium Scale Enterprises Sustainability: Factors Influencing the Pottery Industry in Sri Lanka | Indo

 

Pottery of Sri Lanka - Wikipedia

 

THE HISTORY OF POTTERY - Explore Sri Lanka

 

Earthenware of Sri Lanka – Asia InCH – Encyclopedia of Intangible Cultural Heritage

 

Handicrafts |

 

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A Study on the Traditional Pottery of Sri Lanka: History, Features, and Social Impact

1. Introduction

Traditional Sri Lankan pottery is a craft with a long history, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. This art form is deeply rooted in the culture and society of Sri Lanka, with unique variations emerging across different regions. The purpose of this study is to explore the historical origins, characteristics, key production regions, crafting process, modern development, and social significance of traditional Sri Lankan pottery.

2. History and Origins

The history of pottery in Sri Lanka can be traced back to the 2nd century BCE, with archaeological evidence revealing the use of pottery in regions such as Anuradhapura and Kandy[4]. Pottery artifacts found in these regions indicate that it was widely used in early Sri Lankan society. During the Kandy period, pottery featuring lotus motifs became popular, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of the time[2]. From the earliest times, pottery in Sri Lanka was used for both practical and decorative purposes, a tradition that continues to this day[1][3].

3. Characteristics

The key features of traditional Sri Lankan pottery are its practicality and aesthetic appeal. Commonly produced items include cooking vessels, water jars, and decorative vases, characterized by their simple yet elegant designs[1]. Sri Lankan pottery is primarily made from red clay, which is often mixed with other materials to increase strength and durability[3]. With growing demand for decorative items, glazes and colorful patterns have been incorporated into the design, making the products more diverse and visually appealing[1][2].

4. Key Production Regions

Pottery production in Sri Lanka is distributed across the country, with notable centers in Nathandiya, Dediyawala, Boralasgamuwa, and Mitiyagoda[4]. These areas are rich in clay resources, allowing traditional pottery villages to thrive. In smaller villages like Molagoda, artisans continue to craft pottery using traditional methods[6]. Each region has its own distinctive style, shaped by local resources and cultural influences.

5. Crafting Process

The traditional pottery-making process in Sri Lanka involves several meticulous steps:

1. Clay Preparation: Clay is gathered from local sources, mixed with water, and kneaded until the desired consistency is achieved. The clay is then allowed to mature for a set period[4][2].
2. Shaping: Using a potter’s wheel, artisans shape the clay into the desired form. Hand-molding techniques are also commonly used to achieve specific designs.
3. Drying: The shaped items are left to dry naturally in the sun before undergoing further refinement.
4. Firing: The dried pieces are fired in traditional kilns, where skilled potters carefully monitor the temperature and duration to ensure the proper hardness and finish[4].

Throughout the process, artisans rely on their experience to control the quality and durability of each piece, passing down their knowledge from generation to generation.

6. Modern Development and Preservation

In the modern era, the pottery industry in Sri Lanka has undergone significant changes to ensure its sustainable development. Through initiatives like the 'Saubagyaye Dekma' program, the government has worked to elevate the status of potters and promote eco-friendly products[3]. Combining traditional techniques with modern design has allowed Sri Lankan pottery to maintain its cultural relevance while appealing to contemporary markets. These efforts have also strengthened Sri Lanka’s position in the global handicraft market[5][7].

Additionally, technological advancements, such as the introduction of electric kilns and new glazing techniques, have contributed to improving the quality and efficiency of pottery production. These innovations have made it possible for artisans to experiment with new styles while preserving the essence of traditional craftsmanship.

7. Social Significance

Sri Lankan pottery is more than just a craft; it holds significant social and economic importance. The pottery industry supports local economies, especially in rural areas, where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often the backbone of communities[5][7]. Pottery provides employment and income for many families, contributing to the sustainability of these regions.

Furthermore, the craft strengthens cultural identity by preserving traditional skills and promoting local heritage. The role of pottery in Sri Lankan society extends to religious and cultural practices, where pottery items are used in festivals, rituals, and everyday life.

8. Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s traditional pottery represents an important aspect of the country’s cultural heritage. With a history that spans centuries, the craft continues to evolve while maintaining its traditional roots. The pottery industry’s ongoing development, supported by government initiatives and local artisans’ creativity, ensures that this craft remains economically and culturally vital. Looking ahead, the preservation and promotion of Sri Lanka’s pottery traditions will be key to maintaining the cultural and economic significance of this timeless craft.

References

1. SAARC Cultural Centre. "Handicrafts."
2. Asia InCH. "Earthenware of Sri Lanka."
3. Explore Sri Lanka. "The History of Pottery."
4. Wikipedia. "Pottery of Sri Lanka."
5. Indonesian Journal of Agricultural Research.
6. Aartzy. "Traditional Arts and Crafts of Sri Lanka."
7. ResearchGate. "Factors Influencing the Pottery Industry in Sri Lanka."

Citations:
[1] https://saarcculture.org/handicrafts-7/
[2] https://asiainch.org/craft/earthenware/
[3] https://exploresrilanka.lk/the-history-of-pottery/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottery_of_Sri_Lanka
[5] https://talenta.usu.ac.id/InJAR/article/view/13473
[6] https://www.aartzy.com/aartzest/traditional-arts-and-crafts-of-sri-lanka-6288
[7] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378950522_Enhancing_Small_and_Medium_Scale_Enterprises_Sustainability_Factors_Influencing_the_Pottery_Industry_in_Sri_Lanka