The making of Dong Ho folk woodcut painting in the northern province of
Bac Ninh has been recognised as part of the national intangible cultural
heritage.
This was revealed by Nguyen Van Phong,
Director of the Bac Ninh provincial Department of Culture, Sports and
Tourism on March 6.
The making of Dong Ho folk woodcut painting has its roots in Song Ho commune, Thuan Thanh district.
Traditionally,
Dong Ho painting, which reflected a wide range of themes, especially
good luck wishes, historical figures, and folk allegories, was part of
the essential decorations in each Vietnamese family during the
traditional Tet (lunar New Year) festival.
According to the
villagers, the making of Dong Ho painting dates back to the 11th century
during the reign of the Ly dynasty (1009-1225). However, researchers
said the craft began under the rule of the Le dynasty (1428-1788).
In
making the painting, Dong Ho craftsmen used raw materials from nature,
including making sheets of printing papers from bark of “do” tree and
creating colours from earth, burnt bamboo leaves, sea shell.
After printing, the finished painting was covered with a layer of rice
paste to strengthen the durability of its illustration and colours and
afterwards dried under the sun.
As the traditional craft has
faded with time, efforts have been made to preserve it, with Nguyen Dang
Che and Nguyen Huu Sam, two of the few remaining experienced craftsmen
of the village establishing their own Dong Ho painting centres.
The recognition is expected to help preserve and develop the printing
art while increasing public’s awareness of traditional cultural values.-VNA