Patterns and colours at Shwedagon
On to the final post from Shwedagon Pagoda. So far we have looked at people and architecture for this one I will focus on the detail and show you some of the wonderful patterns and colours that cover every available surface. Each space has a different feel and colour scheme which is another reason you need lots of time to takeout all in. Many of the temples I have seen in Asia are quite similar but this one is really quite individual. It definitely has similar elements to the others but much more besides.
This buddha arrangement was none of my favourite spaces I love the colours and mirror mosaics especially the vibrant turquoise. The hours it must have taken to cut all the pieces of glass and carefully lay the perfect pattern out on the walls. With all this pattern and colour it comes to mind again, as it did in India, that nothing clashes or looks out of place. Also I would quite like a large shower with this kind of mosaic mirror pattern on the wall or maybe a splash back behind the sink in the kitchen?
Each of the spaces with buddha at one end have some elaborate pattern behind him to enable the figure to stand out and look opulent and grand. If I were an interior designer or textile artist there is a wealth of inspiration going on here that could enhance any project. As I am not either of those I just store up all these patterns, colours and arrangements in my and at an unexpected moment something with show itself in my home or my work.
Literally every surface is covered with some kind of pattern usually intimate and detailed and definitely colourful.
The colour not only comes from the decor of the walls ceilings and floors the many gifts and offerings are full of colour and pattern too. Even more layers of colour and pattern come from the beautiful clothes that the Myanmar nation dress in which on the whole is exceptionally stylish, elegant and full of life. Check out the previous posts to see some of that.
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