The artwork “Gióng” belongs to the lacquer painting genre, measuring 90 x 120.3 cm. It was painted by the renowned artist Nguyen Tu Nghiem and completed in 1990. Currently, it is displayed at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum.
Nguyen Tu Nghiem (Nguyễn Tư Nghiêm) is one of the most prominent painters of modern Vietnamese art. He has left a lasting impression on art enthusiasts with many outstanding works, among which “Gióng” stands out as a testament to his talent and dedication in depicting the cultural values of the nation. Today, let’s delve deeper into “Gióng” to appreciate the beauty and profound meaning that this work conveys.
1. The Meaning and Inspiration Behind the Artwork
1.1. The Meaning of the Artwork “Gióng”
The image of the hero Gióng from ancient times is a legendary figure in Vietnamese folklore, representing the strength, courage, and indomitable spirit of the nation. In the artwork, Nguyen Tu Nghiem portrays Gióng fighting against invading forces (the Ân army), vividly illustrating the resilient will and determined spirit of the Vietnamese people.
“Gióng” not only recreates a mythical character but also evokes the cultural values and traditional customs of Vietnam. This is a hallmark of Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s artistry, where he consistently strives to preserve and convey cultural identity through each of his works.
Through “Gióng,” he sought to ignite national pride and a sense of unity amidst the country’s transformative period. Additionally, he aimed to remind future generations of their roots and the cultural traditions that their ancestors built.
1.2. The Inspiration Behind the Artwork
Nguyen Tu Nghiem lived and created during a time when the country underwent significant upheavals, especially during the wars against the French and Americans. The challenges of war had a profound impact on his mindset and artistic style. Folklore tales like “Gióng” revived in his mind the image of strong and determined Vietnamese people standing up to defend their homeland.
Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s artistic style is a harmonious blend of classical and modern elements. He meticulously studied traditional art forms, such as Đông Hồ folk paintings, and incorporated them into his modern works.
2. The Origins and History of the Artwork “Gióng”
The lacquer painting “Gióng” was completed by Nguyen Tu Nghiem in 1990.
The story of Saint Gióng has been passed down since the early days of Vietnamese history (during the reign of the sixth Hùng King) and has become an integral part of Vietnamese folklore, symbolizing patriotism and unity.
Saint Gióng is not just a mythical figure but also a symbol of national strength, an image deeply rooted in legend yet closely connected to the Vietnamese soul.
3. Style and Techniques Used
Nguyen Tu Nghiem is renowned for his ability to seamlessly combine traditional and modern art forms. In “Gióng,” he skillfully merges folklore with legendary symbolism to create a highly creative piece. While the painting may appear simple in form, it demonstrates precision and sophistication in conveying the emotions and resolute will of the character Gióng.
The painting uses vibrant colors with tones of red, yellow, and green – hues that are not only eye-catching but also evoke a strong sense of national pride. Nguyen Tu Nghiem is a master of lacquer technique, and “Gióng” is a prime example of his expertise in handling this material, creating depth and unique lighting effects that bring every detail to life.
The composition of the painting is also carefully designed, using layers of color and form to create a blend of tradition and modernity. However, as of now, there has been no official statement regarding the specific layout of “Gióng.” On one occasion, Nguyen Tu Nghiem revealed that “the greatest secret lies in the size of the painting.” In this artwork, the central figure is Saint Gióng, placed prominently to draw attention to the entire piece. Secondary elements like the horse, weapons, and surrounding scenery are cleverly arranged to highlight the main image, creating a sense of balance and harmony throughout the painting.
4. Critique and Reception
From the moment “Gióng” was unveiled, art critics have highly praised Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s ability to combine traditional and modern elements in his style. Many believe that this piece is a prime example of innovation in Vietnamese lacquer art, preserving folk culture while applying modern and creative techniques. The work is lauded for its ability to evoke patriotism and national pride. The image of Saint Gióng – a symbol of strength and resilience – resonates deeply with viewers, especially given Vietnam’s tumultuous history.
The intricate lacquer techniques that Nguyen Tu Nghiem employed in “Gióng” are also seen as a significant advancement, elevating this traditional medium to new heights. It has transcended mere decorative function, becoming a profound and meaningful artistic expression. The painting not only showcases Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s extraordinary talent but also highlights the potential of Vietnamese lacquer art to convey deep cultural and spiritual values.
Among the art community, “Gióng” is regarded as a quintessential work that embodies Vietnamese cultural identity. It is not just a technically superb artwork but also a cultural symbol that contributes to the preservation and development of national art.
At present, “Gióng” retains a special position in asserting the significance of Vietnamese lacquer art on the international stage. It is a testament to Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s unique creativity and talent. “Gióng” has inspired many young artists, encouraging them to learn from his style as they forge their own artistic paths.
The art community frequently exhibits “Gióng” at various exhibitions and symposiums, where the piece is discussed as an icon of modern Vietnamese art. It is not only a symbol of lacquer art but also a valuable source of inspiration for artists and researchers studying and developing traditional art.
5. Artistic and Financial Value
5.1. Artistic Value
Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s “Gióng” is considered one of the most iconic masterpieces of Vietnamese lacquer art. The work exemplifies the perfect combination of traditional lacquer techniques and modern creative style.
More than just a finely crafted piece of art, “Gióng” carries the strength of Vietnamese folklore and cultural traditions. The harmonious interplay of colors, light, and form in the painting clearly demonstrates Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s creativity and talent.
“Gióng” has played a significant role in shaping contemporary art trends in Vietnam, while also serving as a powerful inspiration for many young artists.
5.2. Financial Value
“Gióng” is not only highly valued artistically but also considered one of the most financially valuable artworks in the Vietnamese art market. Auctions often record high prices for Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s works, reflecting deep interest from art collectors.
The financial value of “Gióng” has steadily increased over time, making it a safe and potential investment for collectors. As the global art market expands, Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s works, particularly “Gióng,” continue to attract international collectors, further boosting its financial worth.
6. Influence and Importance of the Artwork on Contemporary Art
Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s “Gióng” has had a wide-reaching influence and holds great importance in contemporary Vietnamese art. The painting opened up new directions in combining tradition and modernity, encouraging young artists to explore and innovate in their artistic expression. The exquisite lacquer technique employed by Nguyen Tu Nghiem has become a powerful source of inspiration for artists in approaching and developing traditional materials.
“Gióng” is not merely an artwork but also a tribute to the nation’s cultural heritage. Through the image of Saint Gióng, the work evokes patriotism and national pride, helping younger generations to become more aware of their roots and cultural identity. The painting serves as a bridge between generations of artists, from the pioneers to the youth, and continues to be a valuable source of inspiration for the development of Vietnamese art.
7. Personal Reflection on “Gióng”
It can be said that Nguyen Tu Nghiem’s “Gióng” is not only a masterpiece of art but also plays a pivotal role in shaping and developing contemporary art in Vietnam. The work is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, carrying a profound message about culture and history. With its long-lasting influence on generations of artists, “Gióng” has firmly established its place in the art community while also holding significant financial value. The combination of refined technique, rich content, and market appeal has helped “Gióng” maintain its status in both Vietnamese and international art scenes.
Jacqueline Burke –
“Giong” is a bold and abstract interpretation of the legendary Vietnamese hero, Saint Giong. The painting’s fragmented and geometric style reflects a dynamic energy, embodying the strength and motion of the mythical warrior on his steed. The use of earthy tones, with flashes of gold and red, evokes a sense of cultural depth and heroism. The layered composition and symbolic forms suggest both complexity and timelessness, capturing the spirit of an enduring legend while reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens.
Paul Militaru –
The composition of “Giong” is strikingly innovative, blending traditional lacquer techniques with modern abstraction. The fragmented shapes and bold outlines create a sense of movement and energy, as if the steed and rider are frozen in mid-charge. The artist’s use of color—earthy reds, golds, and grays—anchors the piece in a cultural context while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. The interplay between positive and negative space adds depth, inviting viewers to engage with the work on multiple levels.