gems, corundum, Sri Lanka.12, lapidary, ancient lapidary

Wall surveys the principal industries and manufactures practiced in ancient Ceylon, using surviving objects, ruins, inscriptions, and historical traditions to illustrate the technical accomplishments of the island’s earlier inhabitants. He discusses metalworking, including the smelting and working of iron and the production of implements, weapons, and ornamental objects; stone quarrying, cutting, carving, and polishing; pottery and brick manufacture; woodworking; weaving and other crafts; and the engineering skills demonstrated in buildings, roads, bridges, tanks, and irrigation works. Particular attention is given to the remarkable ability of ancient Sinhalese craftsmen to quarry, transport, shape, and finish large masses of stone with comparatively simple tools. Wall contrasts these formerly flourishing indigenous industries with their decline in more recent times and argues that the archaeological remains of Ceylon demonstrate a considerably higher level of technological skill and organization than contemporary conditions might suggest. Discussion includes ancient industries, including gem mining and manufacturing.