Decorative enamelled wares in Huế Imperial City.

Abstract

ABSTRACT
DECORATIVE ENAMELLED WARES IN HUẾ IMPERIAL CITY
Enamel is not as precious as gold and jade, however, it has been used as a specific material in architectural decoration for its glitter, extensibility and aesthetic value.
It should be said that the earliest decorative enamel in Huế is the one at Huế Imperial City constructions. The enamelled gourd on Triệu Miếu’s ridge, the sphere and gourds on ridges of Thế Miếu or Hiển Lâm Các are examples.
At Thái Hòa palace, the ornamental panels on the front and back verge, panels on the front and back roof walls or decoration on the gable were all enamelled. 108 five-color enamelled panels were alternately decorated with Chinese verses, flowers and birds or Eight Treasures in various dimension and colors creating the highlight in the immense space.
At the Southern Gate’s ridge, the gourd set on five-color pattern of clouds shining in the sky was also enamelled. In addition, 9 colorful enamelled panels on the verge at each side including 4 panels of verses and 5 panels of paintings are also vivid ornament.
On the bronze gate at Bridge of the Central Way crossing Thái Dịch lake, the gate’s top was also decorated with enamelled patterns of lotus, Eight Treasures and four political slogans in Chinese letters: Chính Đại Quang Minh, Chính Trực Đãng Bình, Cư Nhân Do Nghĩa and Trung Hòa Vị Dục.
The enamelled panels decorated on architectures in Imperial City enhance the magnificence of these buildings.