Vietnam's Dong Ho woodblock paintings added to UNESCO heritage list
Last year, the 400-year-old Dong Ho woodblock paintings, a traditional Vietnamese folk art, were inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This craft, which hails from Dong Ho village in Bac Ninh province, entails the meticulous carving of detailed patterns into woodblocks, followed by printing on paper and using natural dyes for coloring. Although this tradition has been handed down through many generations, it is now threatened by modernization and a waning interest among younger people. The acknowledgment from UNESCO seeks to safeguard and enhance the visibility of this cultural heritage.
Key facts
- Dong Ho woodblock paintings are a 400-year-old tradition from Vietnam.
- The art form was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage last year.
- It originates from Dong Ho village in Bac Ninh province.
- The process involves carving woodblocks, printing, and coloring with natural dyes.
- The tradition is passed down through generations.
- It faces challenges from modernization and declining youth interest.
- UNESCO recognition aims to preserve and promote the practice.
Entities
Institutions
- UNESCO
Locations
- Vietnam
- Dong Ho village
- Bac Ninh province