For centuries, the ancient texts of Vietnam’s culture were undervalued and overlooked. The rise of Western influences led to the neglect of these treasures, relegating them to the realm of the forgotten. The image of the “Ông Đồ” (Ancient-text Scholar) strolling the streets with a case of pens became a poignant reminder of the extinguished ancient texts in Vietnam.
But in recent years, a shift has occurred. Vietnamese people have begun to rekindle their appreciation for the ancient texts. The Ancient Text Street, nestled alongside the renowned Hanoi’s Temple of Literature, has emerged as a popular destination for “Ông Đồs” from all over Northern Hanoi. Here, they gather to preserve and pass on this elite tradition to the next generation.
The Appearance Of Ancient Text Street and the Resurrection of Vietnam’s Ancient Text
Approximately 12 years ago, a group of “Ông Đồ” in Hanoi decided to gather on this street during the festive Tet Holiday. Their intention was to revive the long-standing calligraphy culture by selling and gifting their beautiful ancient writings. This location was chosen for its educational significance and its representation of Vietnamese traditional culture.
Initially, only a few scattered “Ông Đồ” could be found along the fence wall of the Temple of Literature. However, word spread rapidly, attracting “Ông Đồ” from all corners of Northern Vietnam. With their arrival, a vibrant community of ancient texts came to life, serving visitors on every occasion during the Tet Holiday.
People in Hanoi have grown accustomed to the appearance of this special street during each Tet Holiday. Dozens of “Ông Đồ,” of all ages and even some women, dress themselves in traditional scholar clothes or modern attire such as jeans, pants, and t-shirts. They skillfully wield their pens on various mediums to create intricate Chinese-style, Vietnamese-style, and modern texts.
“Street” Or “Market” Of Ancient Text
In no time, this street transformed into a bustling text market. More and more “Ông Đồ” flocked to this place to sell their texts to both Vietnamese locals and curious foreigners. As a result, there was a universalization of traditional culture while simultaneously meeting the demand for awe-inspiring calligraphy masterpieces.
Money played a role in the early days of this market, with visitors paying the “Ông Đồ” for their calligraphy. However, the transaction process differed from what we see today. Back then, the “Ông Đồ” didn’t sell their beautiful texts per se, but rather their dignity. Visitors paid not just for the end result, but for the opportunity to witness the creative process of the “Ông Đồ” and to acknowledge their dedication to this esteemed art form. Interestingly, there were even instances where “Ông Đồ” refused to accept money, as their sole desire was to express their personality through their creations. To them, crafting ancient text masterpieces was an interest, not merely a means to make money.
However, the landscape of the ancient text street has evolved into a commercial market. While some elder “Ông Đồ” still generously gift their texts to visitors, alongside them are many younger individuals, particularly students of ancient texts, who view their work as products lacking cultural significance. They are yet to possess the dignity required to embody and showcase this cultural art form.
As the Ancient Text Street in Hanoi continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the growing renaissance of Vietnamese ancient texts. Through the dedication of these “Ông Đồs,” the heritage that was once on the verge of extinction is now experiencing a revival. So, if you find yourself captivated by this timeless art, make a pilgrimage to the Ancient Text Street and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Vietnam’s ancient texts.
Continue exploring the wonders of Vietnamese traditional calligraphy during Tet at Travel Guide.