STONE CARVINGS

Dogs, cats, tigers, mythical figure (half man - half animal holding scepters) were carved and placed at temples, palaces, business and homes to guards against evil spirits and to bring foster good luck.  They were placed inside as well as by the front door of the house to protect the inhabitants.

These sculpture were cared 150 - 500 years old. The process of carving was a holy process. Before these granite pieces were carved, the artist must go through a cleansing period before and during their work, fasting and praying to get the proper inspiration.

WOOD CARVINGS
                                TRADITIONAL VIETNAMESE  SCULPTURES

Often seen and admired in temples and pagodas through out Viet Nam, these wood sculptures are the most exquisite reproduction. They are crafted in wood, specially treated, lacquered and then layered with silver, gold and vermilion leaf. The skills usually kept and handed down from within families from the ancient past.

There are many stages for the production of these works of art, gathering the proper wood, selecting the proper piece size, carving to fit the character of the wood, treating the finished wood in preparation for the final artwork of ancient lacquering and leafing. The aging and finishing process is unique to give the pieces an antique look. Some appear to be cast metal, all are modern works of woods that are sculptured and finished in modern style and each took months of work and processing to complete.  [Some of the pieces are antique dating back 200 years.]

 

 

 

   ADZIDA is Budha of the Past,  managing
the West of a perfect Felicity World (Paradise)
seated practicing dhyana. 

 

 

ANANDA is a cousin of Sakyamuni Bodhisattva like Maha Kacyapa, but younger and extremely intelligent and erudite. Usually Ananda are shown in two stages, un-enlightened and enlightened states. At un-enlightened state Ananda face shows tension, conflicts and when he reaches enlightenment, Ananda has a peaceful and happy face. Vietnamese affectionately called these states Mr. Pain and Mr. Enlightenment.

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   THI GIA: Attends Budha at the rear rank
Thi Gia are often children
symbolizing innocence and purity.

 

 

 

 

 

   THAI GIA: Attends Budha, escorts
his/her superior, to aid, serve and protect.

 

 

 

 

 

   KIM DONG (golden boy)
Attendant to Quan Am, the Saint Mother of
Taoism and becomes Bodhisattva in Buddhism.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   CRANE STANDING ON TURTLE BACK

The crane symbolizes high spirit, elegance, and
purity.  The turtle represents longevity, stability. 
These sculptures usually seen in pagoda, standing
at the sides of the altar. 

 

   GENTLEMAN’S BOX IN THE SHAPE OF A UNICORN-DRAGON
 

In the old days, when the gentlemen go out,
they usually carry their personal items in
these boxes.   Additionally, these boxes were
used as pillows or arm rests.

 

Additional carved items include: