Delve into the captivating artistry and cultural significance of Killota, or lime boxes, with Ancient and Traditional Boxes, Caskets and Chests in Sri Lankan Museums: Killota or Chunam (Lime) Boxes by P. H. D. H. De Silva. This first-of-its-kind study unearths the rich history and exquisite craftsmanship behind these unique Sinhalese artifacts, tracing their evolution from simple metal containers to intricately ornamented treasures of Sri Lankan heritage.
 
Drawing from an extensive collection housed in the National and Archaeological Museums of Sri Lanka, the book explores lime boxes from as early as the 9th century, recovered from sites such as Panduvasnuvara and Polonnaruwa, to more ornate Kandyan and Low-country designs. Highlighted with vivid descriptions and high-quality images, the publication showcases diverse forms including animal, fruit, globe, and Udäkkiya shapes, as well as rare gold and ivory specimens.
 
Enriched with references to historical accounts by early British writers like Robert Knox and Ananda Coomaraswamy, this scholarly work also celebrates the contributions of the National Museums' artists and curators. It is a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors, offering a detailed glimpse into Sri Lanka’s artistic traditions and cultural evolution.