Lacquerware

Lacquerware, which originated in ancient China as a means of coating household items for durability, has evolved into a fine art form. In Vietnam, where it is known as "sơn mài," skilled craftsmen have been producing lacquerware for centuries using the resin of local lacquer trees. The process of creating genuine lacquerware is time- and labor-intensive, with multiple layers of lacquer applied to the object, sometimes with additional decorative materials such as sand, crushed eggshell, or gold and tin leaf.

The art of lacquerware has a long history in Vietnam, dating back to the feudal period, and can be seen in decorated statues, panels, boxes, and trays at temples and pagodas throughout the country. In the 18th century, larger items such as chairs and tables were also adorned with engraved, painted, or inlaid mother-of-pearl designs in important centers of production such as Nam Ngư and Bình Vọng in the north, and Thủ Dầu Một in the south.

The French introduced formal training programs for lacquerware production in Vietnam as part of their efforts to open up Vietnamese handicrafts to foreign markets. This led to the birth of a new hybrid form, Vietnamese lacquer painting, which was developed by staff and students of the École supérieure des beaux-arts de l'Indochine in Hanoi.

Today, lacquerware remains one of the mainstays of the Vietnamese handicraft industry, with popular items including vases, jewel cases, desk sets, trays, and vertical blinds. Those interested in learning more about lacquerware can visit the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum to see an excellent collection on display.