Vietnam

Traditional native arts and crafts of Vietnam were influenced by China, India and Malaysia but over the centuries took on a distinct style of its own.

The earliest forms of art were rock art and basic pottery, however this developed rapidly into decorated ceramics.

Native styles combined with the influence of Chinese philosophies and religion produced some of the best porcelain in Asia.

Bronze work began to flourish with the Dong Son period where advanced casting skills produced articles like the world famous Dong Son drums.

They were elaborately decorated with geometric patterns, and depicted scenes of everyday life such as farming, warriors donning feather headdresses, construction of ships and musicians.

Vietnam has a long history of weaving cloth. Colourful silk cloth for clothing and temples were produced with highly stylised patterns, as well as intricate jewellery, usually fashioned from silver and local gemstones.

Silk painting is one of the most popular forms of art favoured for the mystical atmosphere which emphasised softness, elegance and a flexibility of style.

Silk painting typically showcases the countryside, landscapes, pagodas, historical events or scenes of daily life.

Laquerware with inlaying, usually with mother of pearl, is also a highly-developed craft.

An abundance of high-grade limestone and the early influences of the Hindu motifs of the Cham people have encouraged a long tradition stone carving.

The tradition of wood carving can be seen in statuary, furniture, architecture and ornaments. Typically, they are heavily incised and often stained to very dark colours or

In the past, the craft was closely associated with embellishments to royal and religious buildings, but is now more often expressed in the form of public statuary.

Water puppets are a traditional art and have a long history. In water puppet shows there is a very effective combination of visual effects provided by fire, water, and the movements of the marionettes.

The whole control system of the show is under the surface of the water, concealed from the audience.

Woodblock art was very popular, this was made by engraving on wood and then printing colourful pictures onto home made paper to display sell and give to others.

Scenes represented good luck; dreams come true or told simple tales. The art was popular among village residents and brightened the walls of their homes.

Each ethnic group has their own traditional dance performed at festivals and other special occasions, such as the lion dance.

In the imperial court there also developed a series of complex court dances which require great skill which were accompanied by a wide variety of musical instruments.

Some of the more widely known are the imperial lantern dance, fan dance, and platter dance.

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