Language: Sinhalese
Source: Standard literature

Description

Patura is the Sinhalese term for a decorative motif that consists of elongated triangles with two sides of equal length. In geometry, these are called isosceles triangles.¹ 

It is one of the most recognizable elements of Sinhalese lacquer work and are frequently seen on shafts and bows.

Patura lacquer work decoration on the shaft of a Sinhalese patisthānaya.
Sold by Mandarin Mansion in 2019.

Close up of the patura lacquer work decoration on the shaft of a Sinhalese patisthānaya.

Overview of Sinhalese decorative lacquerwork

Upper part of a lacquered staff.
From colored drawings by Ethel M. Coomaraswamy.

The above image shows two sections of Sinhalese lacquered staffs. The decorative motifs are as follows:

A. Vẹlpota or pāhaḍe vẹlpota
B. Ādāra-koṇḍu
C. Gal-bindu or mori binduva
D. Kola vẹla ("leafy branch") or kaḷas-dangaya
E. Pāhaḍe or palā peti
F. Lanu-dangaya
G. Patura
H. Bō-kola ("bō-leaf")
K. Binduva or tani binduva ²

Notes
1. See Ananda K. Coomaraswamy; Medieaval Sinhalese Art, Pantheon Books, New York, Second Edition of the 1908 original, 1956. Page 216-217.
2. Ibid. Explanation of plate XXIV.