Tuyệt kỹ dưới lớp sơn: Hành trình khôi phục sơn mài truyền thống | Nghệ nhân Hà Nội

Summary

The transcript highlights the traditional craft of Sơn Mài (lacquer painting) in the Hạ Thái region of Vietnam. The intricate process involves multiple layers of lacquer, with artists using materials like tree resin and specific local earth. The craft's rich history dates back to the 17th century, with artisans serving the royal class. The video emphasizes the detailed steps of preparing the wood, applying the lacquer, and creating vibrant designs that require high skill. It also discusses the importance of preserving this art, passing it to younger generations, and its cultural significance in the region.

Takeaways

• 😀 The traditional lacquer painting technique involves a meticulous multi-layer process, requiring careful application and sanding to create a finished artwork.
• 😀 The craft of lacquer painting in Hạ Thái, dating back to the 17th century, originally served the needs of nobility and royalty, producing items like calligraphy scrolls and ceremonial trays.
• 😀 The essential ingredient in traditional lacquer painting is 'sơn ta' (Vietnamese lacquer), which is derived from the sap of a tree that only grows in Tam Nông, Phú Thọ, a region known for its high-quality lacquer.
• 😀 The process of preparing the lacquer involves mixing the sap with various other materials, including sawdust and specific types of soil like clay and silt, to create a durable and smooth base for painting.
• 😀 Skilled artisans carefully manage the drying and curing process of lacquer, using a controlled environment to ensure optimal temperature and humidity levels for the best results.
• 😀 The creation of a lacquer artwork involves multiple stages, starting with a wooden base that is layered with fabric and materials like sawdust to create thickness before being coated with lacquer.
• 😀 The painting itself is a layered process, with the artist using a technique called 'chìm' (deep painting), where each layer of paint is applied and sanded multiple times to gradually reveal the image.
• 😀 The colors used in lacquer painting are vibrant and long-lasting, thanks to the unique properties of the lacquer, which can maintain its appearance for hundreds of years.
• 😀 The artistry is not limited to traditional techniques; modern innovations like the inclusion of materials such as eggshells, glass, and gold leaf help enhance the visual appeal and environmental friendliness of the paintings.
• 😀 The craft has been passed down through generations, with local artists deeply committed to preserving and evolving this tradition, while also sharing their skills with younger generations to ensure its continuity.

Q & A

What is the significance of lacquer painting in Hạ Thái village?

Lacquer painting in Hạ Thái village is a traditional craft with a long history, dating back to the 17th century. It was initially practiced to create items for the royal court and noble classes. The craft is known for its meticulous process and use of natural materials, and it has been preserved and passed down through generations.

What is the main ingredient used in the lacquer painting process?

The main ingredient used in lacquer painting is 'sơn ta', a natural lacquer extracted from the sap of the lacquer tree. This sap is specifically sourced from the Tam Nông region in Phú Thọ, which is known for producing high-quality sap.

How is the sap used in the lacquer painting process?

The sap is collected and placed in containers made of iron or cast iron. It undergoes a chemical reaction with the metal, causing it to darken into a color known as 'then.' This lacquer is essential in the creation of traditional lacquer paintings.

What challenges do artisans face with the sap during the painting process?

A significant challenge with the sap is that it can sometimes fail to dry properly. When this happens, it undergoes a reaction called 'bắt Hanh,' which causes it to never fully dry. The only solution is to discard it and start over.

What steps are involved in preparing the base for lacquer painting?

The first step in preparing the base is making a strong, sturdy frame using wood. This wood is then covered with cloth, and the artisans apply layers of sawdust and leaves from the 'mit' tree to enhance the strength and texture of the base. The process also involves mixing clay and sawdust to create a smooth and firm surface.

What makes the lacquer painting process so intricate?

The lacquer painting process is highly intricate because it involves multiple layers of materials, with each layer requiring drying and polishing. Additionally, the painting is done in layers, where the artwork is created by carving into the lacquer once it has dried, revealing the different layers beneath.

How do artisans achieve the vibrant colors in lacquer paintings?

Artisans achieve vibrant colors by carefully mixing natural pigments into the lacquer. The process requires the lacquer to be slightly 'diluted' so that when it is polished and matted, the colors appear vivid and deep.

What materials, other than lacquer, are sometimes incorporated into the artwork?

In lacquer paintings, artisans sometimes incorporate materials like egg shells, glass, and gold or silver leaf. These materials are used to enhance the visual appeal of the artwork and add texture and depth to the final piece.

How has the craft of lacquer painting in Hạ Thái been preserved over the years?

The craft of lacquer painting in Hạ Thái has been preserved through the dedication of local artisans, including those like Vũ Huy Mến, who have worked to pass the knowledge down to younger generations. Many artisans have taught the craft to students and are committed to maintaining the tradition.

What personal connection does the artisan have to the craft of lacquer painting?

The artisan in the transcript was raised in a family with a long tradition of lacquer painting. Having been exposed to the craft from a young age, they have dedicated over 30 years to mastering and preserving this traditional art form.