Over 570 artifacts of different materials from the northern Red River Delta province of Hung Yen are on display at an antique exhibition at Hung Yen Museum, Nguyet Ho Street of Hung Yen city from November 18-25.
The event is co-organised by the provincial museum, the UNESCO Club on Research and Preservation for the Value of National Antiquity, the UNESCO Club for Antique Research and Collection of Hung Yen province, and the Pho Hien Co Ngoan (antique) Club.
The artifacts on display reflect a land with a long history and rich cultural traditions, while showing the creativity of the people in daily life.
Items at the exhibition include copper tools for work and cultural activities, such as the Dong Xa bronze drum unearthed in Dong Xa village, Kim Dong district, along with copper arrows, axes, coins, bracelets, and earrings dating back 2,000-2,500 years, showcasing the development of Dong Son culture - an ancient Vietnamese civilisation from the Bronze Age.
Dong Thanh ceramic vases, 17th century wine jars, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statues from the 18th century and a range of antiques from the Ly, Tran, Le, Nguyen Dynasties are also on display.
In addition to artifacts originating from the country, antiquities from China and Japan are also featured, thanks to busy commercial relations in Hung Yen history.
According to Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Tran Dang Tuan, during the 16th and 17th centuries, Pho Hien (the old name of Hung Yen) formed as a meeting point for foreign vessels to carry out trading activities thanks to its favourable transport conditions.
Pho Hien became a well-known port-city with bustling activities of a commodity economy. Also thanks to the busy trading, Hung Yen now preserves valuable antiques, parts of which have been selected for display at the exhibition.
The antiquities displayed show the unique creativity, ingenuity, and talent of ancient artisans, thereby highlighting the brilliant achievements in labour of the ancient Vietnamese.
The display is expected to expand research and exchanges among collectors, researchers and antiques lovers in and outside the province for preservation and promotion of national cultural identity.