Le stampe popolari vietnamite e le xilografie di Dong Ho

Đông Hồ Woodcut Painting is an important form of Vietnamese traditional folk art. Originated in Đông Hồ village (Bac Ninh Province) and dating back to the Ly dynasty (XI-XII century), Đông Hồ painting art was most developed during the XVIII-XIX century, and after facing the risk of disappearing during the war times, it gained popularity again, having been recognized as part of the national intangible cultural heritage in 2012. This study will explore the meanings and distinctive values of some of the Đông Hồ paintings, which can be divided into six categories, based on their functions: (1) Worship paintings, which reflect the spiritual life of Vietnamese common people; (2) Auspicious paintings, that usually contain well wishing at the beginning of the lunar year; (3) Historical paintings; (4) Book paintings ; (5) Social activities paintings, which reflect the multifaceted rural life of Vietnamese people; (6) And finally, comical, satirical and ironical paintings. The study will also present the printing and making process of the unique Dó printing papers and colors, as well as the latest measures carried out by the Vietnamese authorities to restore and promote this aspect of Việt Nam’s traditional culture.