The Sinhalese Kastane: Its Development, Decoration and Symbolism

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Ibrahiim al Balooshi

Viewing Kastane hilts through different eyes brings a differing perspective on an interesting subject. Since the historical meaning is shrouded in history and the zoomorphic licence to create a variety of Iconic creatures is very much up to the specialist artisan working in the Royal Workshops many features on the hilt are changed to meet the multi faceted nature of the sword..and bearing in mind its non battle application and its respected place as a badge of office and rank in society.
Below are some examples of the different styles.

Fascinating range of zoomorphics, and as you note, fashioned in accord with clientele demands and skills of the artisans. The character of these depicted creatures is indeed reflective of certain symbolisms distinctive to the person wearing the sword in court or parade settings.

The one being held by the gloved individual(post #196 upper left photo) is one that was found, if I recall, in Vancouver, British Columbia, and there was a great discussion of how in the world a Sinhalese sword ended up there around the turn of the century c.1800. There were some entries in I believe a trade ledger of the company there which described a number of 'dragon swords'. As we have seen with the Hasekura example in Japan which seems to have filtered through trade in the Philippines, it has been suggested Spanish trade may have been involved.