Aesthetics and socio-cultural representation of Sri Lanka on stamps

Abstract

Postage stamps act as national symbols, commemorating events and reflecting a nation’s socio-cultural framework. In this study, aesthetics in Sri Lankan stamps refers to visual elements like color, form, and symbolism, which enhance beauty and express cultural values. Stamps also represent social and cultural life, depicting historical events, practices, landscapes, and symbols of Sri Lankan identity. Ultimately, they serve as a medium for communicating Sri Lanka’s heritage and societal evolution. Since the introduction of pictorial stamps in Sri Lanka in 1935, stamps have functioned both as communication tools and cultural artifacts. However, the rise of digital communication has reduced the use of physical stamps, threatening their cultural significance. As traditional mail declines, the rich narratives embedded in stamps risk disappearing. This study aims to preserve these socio-cultural stories by examining the historical and cultural importance of stamps in shaping Sri Lanka’s national identity.