Sri Lanka has a large variety of traditional handicrafts and the tradition of making handicraft is as old as the nation. According to Mahavamsa (The great chronicle) when Prince Vijaya from India landed in Sri Lanka in the 6th century BC, he met Kuveni spinning cotton. Our ancient kings looked after the craftsmen and encouraged them and it was the main reason for its development.
The island is known the world over for its handicrafts, gems and cuisines and that has drawn millions of tourists from all over the world over the years. It is in a class of its own where its peculiar tourist attractions are concerned.
It has unique handicrafts that are manufactured by applying age-old techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation. These objects are carved in wood, made in brass and silver, decorated lacquer, hand woven cloth lace, beautiful reed mats, pottery, batik, among others.
History mentions that crafting of these was limited to a section of people who were given royal patronage and were identified as people belonging to a specific caste. There are many castes and one of these was in the business of making artifacts, which are an integral part of Sri Lankan culture.
Sri Lanka has a varied heritage for traditional crafts and arts. These products are a result of age-old techniques, indigenous raw materials and the tools of natural handicrafts are fashioned in rural craft centers. It was within these castes that traditional skills were preserved with a high degree of distinct ethnic identity.