Dive into the rich heritage of Sri Lanka with this meticulously researched monograph, Traditional Betel-Bags in the National Museums of Sri Lanka. Authored by P. H. D. H. De Silva and M. M. Dayananda Peiris, this book offers an unparalleled exploration of over sixty-five exquisite betel-bags preserved in the Colombo National Museum. These artifacts reflect the artistry, cultural symbolism, and historical significance of betel-chewing traditions among the Sinhalese.
 
Building on the foundational work of Mrs. Greeta Van Geyzel's Traditional Textiles in the Colombo National Museum and Ananda Coomaraswamy’s iconic Mediaeval Sinhalese Art, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of these ornate pieces. It details their diverse shapes, sizes, and the intricate embroidery that embodies the island’s traditional designs.
 
Enhanced by historical insights from early records by Robert Knox (1681) to Ananda Coomaraswamy's descriptions in 1908, this publication sheds light on the evolution of betel-bag craftsmanship. Richly illustrated and steeped in scholarly context, it serves as both a visual and intellectual journey into a lesser-known aspect of Sri Lankan heritage.
 
Ideal for cultural enthusiasts, historians, and art collectors, this signed first edition is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sri Lanka’s traditional arts and the meticulous efforts of the National Museums of Sri Lanka in preserving them.