A gateway to Vietnamese Art
At Lumen Artspace, we believe art has the power to transcend borders and connect cultures. Our online gallery is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and richness of Vietnamese art, with a special focus on the timeless tradition of lacquer painting.
THE ART
OF LACQUER
A Timeless Vietnamese Tradition
Lacquer painting is one of Vietnam’s most revered art forms, with a history that spans over a thousand years. Originating from the craft of lacquerware, this medium evolved into a sophisticated artistic practice under the influence of French colonialism in the early 20th century. Today, it stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s cultural identity and artistic innovation.
The process of creating a lacquer painting is both intricate and labor-intensive. Artists layer natural resin from the lacquer tree onto wooden boards, often incorporating materials like eggshell, gold leaf, and mother-of-pearl to achieve stunning textures and depth. Each piece can take months, or even years, to complete, as the layers must dry and be polished repeatedly to reveal their final brilliance.
Beyond its technical mastery, lacquer art captures the essence of Vietnam—its lush landscapes, vibrant traditions, and enduring spirit. At Lumen Artspace, we celebrate this extraordinary art form and invite you to experience its beauty for yourself.
2000+
Ancient Beginnings
- Highlight: Lacquerware was first developed in Vietnam as a practical craft for creating durable, waterproof objects like bowls, trays, and furniture.
- Significance: The use of lacquer resin from the ”son ta” tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum) became a hallmark of Vietnamese craftsmanship.
(Son Ta Phu Tho - Rhus Succedanea paint in Phu Tho)
(Son Ta Phu Tho - Rhus Succedanea paint in Phu Tho)
1st–10th
Influence of Chinese and Japanese Techniques
- Highlight: Vietnamese artisans adapted and refined techniques from neighboring cultures, such as China and Japan, incorporating intricate designs and decorative elements.
- Significance: This period marked the transition of lacquer from a utilitarian craft to an art form with aesthetic value.
20th
The Golden Age of Vietnamese Lacquer Art
- Highlight: In the 1920s and 1930s, Vietnamese artists at the École des Beaux-Arts de l’Indochine (Indochina College of Art) revolutionized lacquer painting by blending traditional techniques with modern artistic styles.
- Significance: Artists like Nguyen Gia Tri and Nguyen Tu Nghiem elevated lacquer painting to a fine art, creating iconic works that celebrated Vietnamese culture and landscapes.
Late 20th
Post-War Revival and Innovation
- Highlight: After the Vietnam War, lacquer art experienced a resurgence as artists sought to preserve and modernize this traditional medium.
- Significance: New techniques and materials were introduced, expanding the possibilities of lacquer art and attracting international attention.
21st
Lacquer Art Today
- Highlight: Contemporary Vietnamese artists continue to push the boundaries of lacquer art, experimenting with abstract themes, bold colors, and innovative techniques.
- Significance: Lacquer art remains a vibrant and evolving medium, celebrated both in Vietnam and on the global stage.
Collecting Arts since
Reflection
Of Art
