“The Screen” by Nguyen Gia Tri: A National Treasure of Vietnamese Lacquer Art
One of the most iconic works in the collection of the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum is The Screen (Bình Phong) by Nguyen Gia Tri. Composed of eight lacquer panels joined together, this masterpiece features two large-scale paintings on either side. One side showcases Young Women in the Garden (Thieu Nu Trong Vuon), while the reverse side displays Landscape (Phong Canh), also known as Colocasia Leaves.
Artistic Details of the Panels
Side One: Young Women in the Garden
The first side portrays a group of figures with varying postures and expressions. The graceful young women, adorned in flowing “Ao Dai” dresses, represent different stages of life and emotional states. The painter captures:
- The poised elegance and confidence of noblewomen.
- The wistful, dreamy melancholy of women in love.
- The innocent, carefree charm of young girls.
These emotions blend seamlessly with the serene beauty of the surrounding garden, creating a harmonious atmosphere that merges humanity with nature. The vibrant golden background adds a festive yet romantic tone, encapsulating the lyrical and poetic qualities of Eastern art.
Side Two: Landscape (Colocasia Leaves)
The second side features overlapping layers of leaves, including taro and banana leaves, interspersed with flowers and bright motifs against a dark backdrop. This side exemplifies Nguyen Gia Tri’s exceptional ability to master lacquer as a medium, showcasing both abstract patterns and tangible forms.
A Testament to Mastery in Lacquer Art
The contrasting styles on each side of The Screen highlight two distinct artistic languages, emphasizing Nguyen Gia Tri’s unparalleled talent in manipulating material and form. The work creates an otherworldly aesthetic, blending traditional craft with modern artistic sensibilities.
This piece is one of Nguyen Gia Tri’s early experiments in large-scale lacquer painting. It reflects his dedication to transforming lacquer from a traditional decorative craft into a fine art medium, meeting the demands of modern artistic expression.
Recognition as a National Treasure
In 2017, The Screen was officially recognized by the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam as a National Treasure. This accolade honors its cultural, historical, and artistic significance, solidifying Nguyen Gia Tri’s legacy as a pioneer in the evolution of Vietnamese lacquer painting.
