Symbolic Thresholds: Interpreting Crescent Motifs in Dambadeniya and Padeniya Temple Architecture – By Nadeeka Jayaweera
Source : Nadeeka Jayaweera LinkedIn
The entrance gate to the Dambadeniya temple (mid-13th century) in the Kurunegala district in Sri Lanka, has a crescent doorway, which is in contrast to the double crescent commonly found at temple entrances.
Some schools of thought attribute the crescent symbol to chandra (moon) signifying a period of rejuvenation of the arts and feminine energy evident during Dambadeniya, where several literary works took place. These periods of calm were few and far between in the past kingdoms.
The double crescent representing the surya (sun) as seen in the entrance to Padeniya temple (late 13th century), represents a period of political turmoil and masculine dominance.
Nuances symbolized in architecture indicate significant aspects of the life in the past and continue to do so in the present.
