Archaeobotanical Perspective on the “Vetkol Flower” in Sigiri Graffiti, Sri Lanka

A groundbreaking analysis of Sigiriya graffiti, dating from the 8th to 10th century, reveals that ancient writings on the rock shelter's mirror wall drew analogies between the site's famous frescoes and flowers of the Luffa genus, a tropical gourd family. This study bridges ethnoarchaeology and archaeobotany, providing new insights into the cultural significance and botanical knowledge embedded in these early inscriptions. By examining the 'Vetkol Flower' motif, researchers uncover a layer of historical interpretation that connects artistic expression to plant taxonomy, offering a unique perspective on the region's rich heritage.

Ranasinghe, S. (2023). Archaeobotanical Perspective on the “Vetkol Flower” in Sigiri Graffiti, Sri Lanka. Ancient Lanka, 2. https://doi.org/10.29173/anlk737