PATTERN DESIGNS OF HISTORICAL ARTEFACTS
EXCAVATED FROM THE THANG LONG CITADEL
LOTUS FLOWER'S MEANING
Though unofficial, but Lotus was already recognized as the National Flower of Vietnam (In Feb 2012, Lotus was proposed to be the National Flower to the Government).
Lotus, despite its pure and sophisticated beauty, also represents for resilience and strong will, as the flower grow from small seed buried deeply under the mud, and bloom brightly under the sky.
Since the beginning of Vietnamese history, Lotus has been a dear companion through the ups and downs.
Archaeology values
After years buried underneath layers of time, the mystery of Thăng Long Citadel is being revealed by Vietnamese archaeologists. Among which, there is a large number of 34 archaeological vestiges belongs to Đại La dynasty (pre -Thăng Long period).
Particularly, there are 17 wooden architectures which were recognized through a system of floor base, columns and roof tiles with beautiful decoration patterns. Especially the patterns of lotus or crocodile swimming in the water.
The decoration patterns and symbols during this time has shown a clear localization of culture – especially in the tube roof tiles with small petal lotus or sacred animals.
Archaeological researches were conducted by Center of Citadel Research, published on 2016.
HISTORY TIMELINE
Đại La dynasty
Đại La dynasty
Đinh - Pre-Lê dynasty
Year
Trần dynasty
ĐẠI LA DYNASTY
When decided to relocate the capital from Hoa Lư to Đại La (now is known as Thăng Long – Hà Nội), King Lý Thái Tổ said: “The ancient Đại La citadel, previously led by Cao Vương, located in the middle of the earth and sky, with magnificent terrain as “flying dragon crouching tiger”, central of South North East West, backed by mountains and rivers. This area is wide yet flat, high yet bright, the residents will not suffer from darkness, the living things will be nurtured and prosperous”.
Đại La Citadel is the first enormous architectural construction, which set the foundation for the development of Thăng Long in the future. Legend said that, the land is so sacred that it took a long time to build the citadel.
Though there has not seen much sign of Đại La ancient foundation, however, there are many archaeological items being preserved in the National Assembly Museum.
ĐINH - TIỀN LÊ DYNASTY
The archaeological heritage from Đinh – Pre-Lê dynasty has shown a specific transformation in decoration patterns compare to Đại La dynasty.
The patterns seem to be much simpler, sharp and
rustic – as it reflects a historical period of continuous wars and chaos.
LY DYNASTY
When Lý Công Uẩn relocated the kingdom capital to Thăng Long, this has started the ownership of Vietnamese traditional culture – among which, this period has seen a peak in cultural-political systems, as well as the foundation for the nation development.
The lotus patterns during Lý Dynasty became more complex in details and variations, yet softer and more sophisticated than previous time.
TRAN DYNASTY
The lotus patterns of Trần Dynasty were simple, yet perfectly round and solid.
In this period, Buddhism is at the most prosperous and recognized as national religion. Therefore, the lotus patterns on architectural constructions during this time is not only for decorations, but also reflected the profound influence of Buddhism in this era.
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