The exhibition “Old Saigon Ceramic Statues - Art and Heritage” introduces more than 50 typical artifacts, divided into 4 thematic groups. In particular, the theme “Buddhist Statues” represents the solemnity and purity in the art of creating religious symbols; the theme “Taoist Statues” is typically the Tam Quan Dai De set - a symbol of power and cosmic order; the theme “Folk Statues” reflects the diverse religious world of the Vietnamese and Chinese people in the Southern region and the theme “Architectural Decorative Statues” are present on the roofs of communal houses, temples, and assembly halls - where ceramics and architecture blend into a unique artistic whole.

In addition to their artistic value, some statues also have historical value with Chinese inscriptions clearly stating the year of manufacture, the name of the pottery kiln and the place of production. This is a valuable source of information, helping to identify and further research on ancient Saigon ceramics.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History, in the Southern region, along with the process of land reclamation and settlement, the pottery profession was soon formed and developed, creating many famous pottery lines such as: Saigon, Lai Thieu, Bien Hoa. In particular, Saigon pottery appeared from the 18th - 19th century with diverse products such as household items, construction materials, reliefs, architectural decorative pottery and worship statues in communal houses, pagodas, and assembly halls. In particular, Saigon ceramic worship statues with unique shapes clearly show the rich spiritual life of Saigon residents in particular and the Southern region in general.

Delegates and the public visit the exhibition.

Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History, said: Each statue is a story, an expression of faith and wishes placed in the "land" - a testament to the creative spirit and rich spiritual life of the people of ancient Saigon. The exhibition brings to the public the beauty born from the simple working life. Through this exhibition, the museum wishes to convey the message: Preserving heritage is not only preserving artifacts, but also preserving the memories, spirit and identity of a land.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History presents commemorative medals to units and individuals participating in the exhibition.

The exhibition “Old Saigon Ceramic Statues - Art and Heritage” will take place until November 17 at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

News and photos: THU LE

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/doi-song/trung-bay-cac-hien-vat-quy-ve-tuong-gom-sai-gon-xua-864441