Kandyan Sesath royal sunshade embroidery: red felt applique and mica spangle inserts?
What ceremonial insignia rules govern the circular embroidery and muscovite mica flake inserts in traditional royal fan standards (Sesath)?
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3 Answers from travellers
The Sesatha is a sacred ceremonial sunshade standard carried in pairs before high dignitaries, royalty, and temple processions in Kandy. The circular fan disc is constructed from bleached Talipot palm leaves (Corypha umbraculifera) stretched over a light rattan ring. Artisans apply red and white felt applique embroidery stitched with silver-gilt thread, depicting concentric Buddhist motifs: the lotus rosette (Pekanaya), sun, moon, and Bo-leaves. Behind the needlework cutouts, craftsmen insert paper-thin transparent flakes of natural muscovite mica (Thaluma). The mica reflects temple torchlight, casting a shimmering halo effect during night processions.
The disc is mounted on a turned Halmilla wood staff painted with red and yellow natural lacquer bands, tipped with a brass lotus bud finial.
Historic antique Sesath preserved in temple treasuries use natural plant-dyed woolen felt; modern tourist souvenir copies use synthetic nylon fabrics.
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