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Arts & Communication Cultural exchange and decorative motifs in 12 -century
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Figure 2. Dynasties during the 12 century and their historical timeline in the study sites. Image created by the author.
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Figure 3. Dynasties, religions, and religious practices in the study sites. Image created by the author.

Polonnaruwa, an ancient capital of Sri Lanka, also Indian artistic elements. The ornamental designs found in
features varied forms of motifs that constitute a unique Polonnaruwa not only signify the religious plurality of the
blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements. Scholars such as island but also suggest its political affiliations with South
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Senake Bandaranayake have investigated the syncretic India, especially during the times of Chola rule.
characteristics of the art of Polonnaruwa, noting the Although there is a lack of thorough comparative
presence and reciprocal influence of Hindu and Buddhist studies linking the decorative patterns of Sarnath, Angkor
traditions. Bandaranayake’s analysis explores how these Wat, and Polonnaruwa, the existing literature suggests
motifs, frequently illustrating floral and animal themes, significant similarities and differences based on their
represented both religious and royal power while respective cultural contexts. The decorative expressions
highlighting the amalgamation of indigenous and South found at the three sites reflect their unique histories, shaped

Volume 3 Issue 3 (2025) 4 doi: 10.36922/ac.4205