Going through a treasure trove!

By Chamintha Thilakarathna

"Kalaya" on Havelock Road in front of the police station is not the most visible to passers-by. But walking into this interesting shop for gifts and furniture one feels like being in a treasure trunk.

Masks from Africa, carpets from Mexico, wall hangings and paintings from the outskirts of India, batiks and Buddha statues from Sri Lanka are but a few of the interesting items found here from many parts of the world. But what is more attractive is the fact that all their crafts seem close to the cultural heart of those nations.

"Kalaya" represents ethnic variations, rustic beauty and culture. "We want to have this type of items in our shop, made of natural fibres, natural silks, wood, cane etc.,' said the shop's two joint owners.

A good example would be beautiful ornaments made from iron. Among them are some fascinating old fashioned bullock carts, figures of elephants, bulls, and other animals.

There is also a selection of Buddha statues at "Kalaya" much like the ones at Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa.

Among the many other treasures are wooden statues of African tribesmen. The lean figures with tribal clothes, jewellery, and tools placed or carved on wood are quite impressive, like the African woman with her seed like necklace. Also the 'madhubani' paintings in black and white that could give many homes a touch of style and richness are worthy of mention.

Napkin rings, curtain rings, ash trays, tooth pick holders and table mats all made of clay, cane table mats, colourful cloth wash bags to put your tooth brush and tooth paste, scented pouches, wall hangings, cushion covers, serviettes, silk and cotton bed spreads are also available. Black and white reed baskets with unique designs from all over the world can be found as well. In fact, they don't look like the usual baskets that we know of.

Even the candle stan

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