Hue is considered to be the intellectual and spiritual center of Vietnam. It was the Imperial city under 13 Kings of Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. During these years, architectural works of a high cultural and historic value were built, especially mother-of-pearl inlay. This is the high level of furniture decoration coming from the folk and upgrading for the royal. Let’s make a day trip from Hue and learn about traditional mother of pearl inlay woodcraft or Khảm xà cừ.
What is the mother of pearl inlay?
Khảm xà cừ (literary meaning Mother of pearl inlay) is a shiny layer on the inside of some shells to decorate the wood surface. It is strong, resilient, iridescent material and makes the furniture bright and valuable. Khảm xà cừ originated from the Northern part of Vietnam for thousand years ago. From Lý, Trần Dynasty, people used the inlay-mother of pearl artworks as a gift for royal and upper classes. Until the 17th century, Nguyen Lords brought Khảm xà cừ to Huế and developed this unique craft for diverse using purposes. For example, decorating in furniture, table, chair, jewelry box, making Nôm phrases, etc. A day trip from Hue to visit Imperial city and a local workshop will bring you an interesting experience in Vietnam.
Let’s take a day trip from Hue and learn about the mother of pearl inlay!
Hue Imperial city is so mysterious and attractive to architecture. When you visit Cung Diên Thọ (Mother Queen Longevity Palace), you might catch sight of many unique souvenirs and artworks. They bring patterns of flowers, plants, royal symbols with a high technique mother of pearl inlay woodcraft. Under Nguyễn Lord Reign, Kim Long village gathered many skillful artisans over the country. Calling by a local workshop on a day trip from Hue, we have a chance to access local woodcraft. According to the artisan, Khảm xà cừ consists of five complicated stages. It includes drawing the design, cutting shells into the shape, wood carving, sticking shell onto the carved wood, grinding, and polishing. Experiencing the craft, we feel thankful for the young generation to maintain and develop this traditional handicraft. It is a great idea to get a small but special mother of pearl inlay souvenir for your family.
Handicraft discovery is a way to reach the culture of your destination. Call by and see how the locals make the gorgeous mother of pearl artwork would be a special experience for you. If you want to join the trip, please do not hesitate to visit our website at Slow Travel Hue. Take a day trip from Hue to Kim Long village at Kim Long longevity secrets to be close to the local.
