PHAM VAN DON (b. Hanoi 1917)

The Den Ngoc Son temple on the Hoan Kiem lake at Hanoi

Details
PHAM VAN DON (b. Hanoi 1917)
The Den Ngoc Son temple on the Hoan Kiem lake at Hanoi
signed and dated "P VAN DON, 75" (lower right)
oil on canvas
53 x 102 in. (135 x 260 cm)
Provenance
The family of the artist.

Lot Essay

The Den Ngoc Son temple which signifies 'Jade Mountain' could be dated from the 13th century to the 19th century. It was known for three historical figures namely the great conqueror of Mongolia from the 13th century, Tran Hung Dao, the renowned literature master Van Xuong and the precursor of Vietnamese medicine, La To.

At the entrance of the temple which was after the red wooden bridge, stood the 'Tower of the Paint Brush' and the 'Gate of Writing'; both were built to pay homage to Vietnamese Literature.

The temple also housed the celebrated turtle which could be dated from the 15th century and known for relating the episode of the 'Return Sword'

This significant work is a manifestation of the country's independence, progress and even poetry which is expressed subtly.

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