Dong Ho Paintings

Dong Ho painting, or Dong Ho folk woodcut painting, is a cherished genre of Vietnamese folk art originating from Dong Ho village (Dong Ho commune, Thuan Thanh district, Bac Ninh province). Traditionally, these paintings served as valuable decorations during the Tet Holiday; Vietnamese families would purchase Dong Ho artworks to display on their walls for the year, replacing them with new pieces as the new year approached. Over the years, Dong Ho painting has evolved into a vibrant symbol of Vietnam's folk culture, inspiring generations of poets and musicians.

Dong Ho Painting - Wedding of the Mouse

The beauty of Dong Ho paintings lies not only in their intricate lines and layouts but also in their unique colors and papers, both of which are handcrafted from natural materials. The paper is traditionally made from the bark of the "do" tree, combined with powder from seashells and glutinous rice. The colors used in Dong Ho paintings are derived from various natural sources commonly found in Vietnamese villages. Seashell powder provides a shimmering white background, while glutinous rice enhances the flexibility of the paper and preserves vivid colors for years. Black is derived from ash from burned bamboo leaves, red comes from red gravel, and yellow is extracted from flowers. The vibrant colors and detailed designs capture the essence of Vietnamese rural life.

The themes of Dong Ho painting reflect daily life, cultural values, social philosophies, and the human aspiration for a prosperous future. Common subjects include folk allegories, social commentary, and representations of luck and happiness. Notable paintings to give as gifts include "Lon dan," "Ga dan," and "Chan trau thoi sau," symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. For those interested in social themes, paintings like "Hung dua" and "Danh ghen" are great options. Art lovers who appreciate legendary figures in Vietnamese folklore may enjoy "Ba Trieu" and "Thanh Giong," while "Dam cuoi chuot" and "Truyen Kieu" appeal to fans of Vietnamese folk tales. To delve deeper into the world of Dong Ho paintings, consider planning a trip to Dong Ho village to engage with local craftsmen, learn about the history and challenges faced by this art form, and witness the painting process firsthand. Currently, only a few families in the village actively preserve this traditional craft, while others have shifted towards producing votive items such as paper money, boats, and motorbikes for their livelihoods. As such, visitors may find that the village differs from their expectations, yet the locals are always eager to guide you to the families keeping this heritage alive.

Watch Vietnam Online Video: A visit to Dong Ho hometown