Built in XVII century (Le Trung Hung period between XVII-XVIII century) – the peak period of Vietnamese traditional folk art development in wood carving and applying this art in architectural decorations (pagoda, communal house).
Cam Đà communal house is a place where 13 families worship the Saint of Mountain, generation after generation. Not only simply being a historical witness, this is where cultural activities take place, where people come for their spiritual and religious practice needs.
Cam Đà communal House was recognised as a national architectural art monument in 2004, from which emphasises the ‘art’ element, noticeably the wood carving. There are many master techniques were used in wood carving here such as: chạm lộng (carve through the surface but somehow connects the whole piece together), chạm nổi (carve on/in the surface); there is a invaluable bas-relief carved meticulously, showing three layers with binding images of a boatman, a dragon and bamboos.
The art topic was very diverse, rich in both content and form during this period. Artists often conveyed deep and expressive meaning through their artworks; all popular topics, features associated with daily life were often sanctified, carrying noble nuances, and vice versa.
Unfortunately, after many restoration, Cam Đà communal house has been changed much from its original; however, it could still retain many prestigious carving details, spirits and its structural proportion. It is currently in awaiting list for restoration.
Photo
Trieu Chien
Location
Ba Vi, Hanoi, Vietnam
Time
10.2022
