In the Old Palace, Kandy, Ceylon (Sri Lanka) 1880

Marianne North captured this oil painting, “In the Old Palace, Kandy, Ceylon (Sri Lanka)”, revealing a narrative steeped in cultural symbols. Dominating the room, we see the recurring motif of the lion, carved into the palace walls; a powerful symbol of Sinhalese royalty and strength. This lion motif echoes through time, reminiscent of ancient Mesopotamian art where lions guarded temples, signifying power and protection. Here, in Ceylon, the lion retains its symbolic weight, yet evolves to embody local heritage. Notice how it is ever-present in art, and is charged with emotions—confidence, command, and sometimes, a raw, untamed aggression. It’s a potent visual cue that taps into our collective consciousness, stirring primal feelings tied to power and dominance. Observe how these symbols, like echoes, resurface, constantly adapting to new cultural contexts. This ever-shifting dance of meaning underscores the enduring power of symbols to bridge past and present, shaping our understanding of culture and history.