Rice Cultivators of Ceylon: Sri Lanka’s Gift to the United Nations

Rice Cultivators of Ceylon

Do you know Sri Lanka gave a gift to UN and still it is on UN headquarter? In December 1965, Sri Lanka made a significant cultural contribution to the United Nations with the presentation of a painting titled “Rice Cultivators of Ceylon.” It was created by the talented artist Senaka Senanayake at just 13 years old, this artwork captures the essence of rural life in Sri Lanka, showcasing the hard work of peasants in a lush rice field. This gift not only reflects the artistic talent of Sri Lanka but also symbolizes the nation’s agricultural heritage.

The Gift: Rice Cultivators of Ceylon

The painting depicts a vibrant scene of rice cultivators engaged in their daily work, surrounded by the picturesque landscape of their village. In the background, you can see charming homes and barns, along with an irrigation canal that plays a crucial role in supporting the local farming community. The piece is an oil painting on canvas, measuring an impressive 60 ½ by 96 ½ inches. It is currently located on the second floor of the UN General Assembly, where it continues to be a point of interest for visitors and delegates alike.

The presentation of this artwork was made by Merenna Francis de Silva Jayaratne, the Permanent Representative of Ceylon to the United Nations. The ceremony took place on December 16, 1965, during a time when Sri Lanka was known by its former name, Ceylon. The painting was accepted by U Thant, the Secretary-General of the United Nations at that time, who served from November 30, 1961, to December 31, 1971. During the ceremony, U Thant remarked on the significance of the gift, stating that it “is an inspiring example of how much the young have to offer us.” He further emphasized that [Senanayake] “has painted a harvest scene of a different and simpler kind than the one which we take part in here each Fall, when the General Assembly gathers to reap the year’s crop of international problems, and it will, I know, encourage us as we go about our work”.

What is UN Gift?

The United Nations Gift collection comprises a diverse array of artworks, historical objects, and architectural elements that have been officially donated to the UN by member states, foundations, and individual donors since 1950. This collection showcases a wide range of cultures and historical periods, featuring aesthetically striking pieces that hold symbolic significance and reflect high artistic standards. Each gift is representative of the donating member state while also aligning with the UN’s mission. The UN Gifts website aims to preserve and promote this cultural and artistic heritage entrusted to the UN Secretariat at its headquarters in New York.

UN gifts are presented during special occasions or significant events. They contribute to the decor of various UN venues, reminding delegates and visitors of the diverse cultures represented within the organization.

Notable UN Gifts

UN Gift Knotted Gun

There are some notable gifts to the United Nations as well as to the world, including “Non-Violence.” Also known as The Knotted Gun, this bronze sculpture features an oversized revolver with its barrel tied in a knot. Luxembourg donated it to the United Nations in 1988. Since Non-Violence is an important peace objective of the UN, this gift remains significant. Additionally, this sculpture has become a replica of Non-Violence around the world, with about 30 sculptures created, and it has become the symbol of The Non-Violence Project. Now, more than thirty copies of the sculpture are installed globally.

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