There are notable similarities between Goan and Sri Lankan Catholic Art, particularly in the context of Catholic sculpture. These similarities are deeply rooted in historical interactions and shared artistic influences.
The authors of the comprehensive research book, ‘Ancient Catholic Sculptures of Sri Lanka’ are Lindamulage Romein Nimantha Silva BMS (HONS) MBA (UK) and Warnakulasooriya Thilina Yohan Rodrigo. Their dedication to documenting Catholic art and sculptural styling is evident in their comprehensive research. Mr. Romein Nimantha Silva is a Catholic art enthusiast from Sri Lanka who owns a family business. He is currently pursuing studies in European sculptural arts in Italy, which complements his expertise in the field. Warnakulasooriya Thilina Yohan Rodrigo works with the Basilica Pontificia di Sant'Antonio di Padova in Italy and is studying Renaissance art. Their experience and studies further enrich the research presented in the book. The book was compiled based on their self-directed research and the valuable knowledge provided by their teachers: Fr Giuliano Abram, Fr Adriano Zorzi, Fr Hist Salvatore Ruzza and Fr Amerigo Afonso. The process of putting together ‘Ancient Catholic Sculptures of Sri Lanka’ took over six years, which began in 2018. It was a comprehensive and meticulous project that spanned over quite some time, during which quite a few challenges were encountered, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic period posed difficulties in accessing resources, conducting field research, and collaborating with others. Despite these setbacks, the project continued to progress, and the team worked diligently to overcome any obstacles and complete the book.
Statues located in museums across Sri Lanka were often found to be decayed or in poor condition. This deterioration made it difficult to obtain clear images and thus accurately assess their historical attributes and origins. Capturing clear and detailed photographs of some statues posed a challenge, particularly when the condition of the statues was compromised. These difficulties hindered the ability to determine precise details about the statues, such as their age and artistic style.
Many of the historic Catholic statues in Sri Lanka are Indo-Portuguese in origin, reflecting the significant impact of Goan and Kerala art on Sri Lankan Catholic sculpture. This influence is evident in the stylistic elements, considering the craftsmanship of the statues, which often mirrors the artistic traditions of Goa and Kerala. The implementation of Passion Play statues in Sri Lanka during the 18th century was facilitated by Goan Oratorian priests. These statues, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, were introduced to Sri Lanka as part of the Catholic liturgical practices and showcase the direct influence of Goan artistic traditions.
One of the major hardships faced while carrying out the research was that, many of the statues in churches were vested, and church members were often reluctant to uncover them or provide clear photographs for the sake of documentation. This limited the ability to study and document these important artifacts thoroughly
Romein Nimantha Silva
The primary reason for undertaking the cooperative study of Sri Lankan and Goan art was the notable absence of comprehensive research dedicated to preserving ancient catholic sculptures in Sri Lanka.
This study addresses a significant gap in the documentation and preservation of these valuable cultural artifacts. Additionally, the inclusion of Goan art in this research is crucial due to the deep historical ties between Sri Lankan Catholic art and the Indo-Portuguese sculptural traditions rooted in Goa and Kerala. Many of the ancient sculptures in Sri Lankan Catholic churches are influenced by Goan and Portuguese artistic styles, reflecting a shared heritage that has shaped the religious and artistic landscape of both regions. By examining these connections, the study aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of this intertwined cultural legacy, ensuring that the rich artistic traditions of both Sri Lanka and Goa are preserved for future generations.
During the Dutch colonial period in Sri Lanka (17th and 18th centuries), Catholicism faced restrictions, leading to the removal of some statues and moving them to India and Portugal. A notable example is the "Our Lady of Jaffna" statue, which was taken to Goa during the Dutch invasions and is currently preserved at St. Peter's Church in Old Goa. This statue, along with others, exemplifies the historical exchange between Sri Lanka and Goa. Local statues crafted in Sri Lanka during the 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries exhibit distinct Indo-Portuguese influences. These locally made statues often incorporated artistic styles and techniques from Goan and Portuguese traditions, reflecting a blend of local craftsmanship with imported artistic practices.
During the study for ‘Ancient Catholic Sculptures of Sri Lanka’, several striking and notable pieces were discovered in Goa, particularly in the private collection of Mr. Frazer Andrade, a distinguished Goan history enthusiast and admirer of Goa’s Christian Art. His collection is remarkable for its diversity and historical significance, featuring: Frazer's collection includes statues crafted from ivory, wood, and bone, each a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and artistic skills of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. These pieces are not only visually stunning but also represent rare and unique examples of Goan sacred art. Many of the statues in Frazer’s collection are exceptionally rare and unique, offering invaluable insights into the artistic practices and materials used in historical Goan sculpture. The collection showcases a variety of styles and techniques, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Goa.
The "Our Lady of Jaffna" statue, currently located at St. Peter's Church in Old Goa, is particularly a significant find. This 16th-century Cingalo-Portuguese (Sri Lankan Portuguese) statue is carved using the Manueline sculptural style, a domesticated version of the Gothic style implemented by King Dom Manuel I of Portugal (1495 to 1521). The statue's presence in Goa underscores the historical connections between Goa and Sri Lanka and highlights the intricate craftsmanship of the time. The statue of Our Lady of Jaffna served as the inspiration for some of the most famous statues in Sri Lanka today, including the statue of Our Lady of Madu.
The history of Catholicism in Sri Lanka, sculptural styles, restoration techniques, and church standards in sculpture have been painstakingly covered in this book. It features notable national landmarks, historical Passion Play statues, and other noteworthy statues in Catholic churches and institutions arranged by dioceses of Sri Lanka. It also lists historical Catholic statues in public and private collections and talks about how Goan sculpting styles have impacted Sri Lankan Catholic art.