Top 18 Essential Dong Ho Paintings for Your Family During the Lunar New Year

"The Wedding of the Mice" is arguably the most unique painting in the Dong Ho folk art collection. This painting portrays corruption and bribery, symbolized by a cat distractedly accepting birds and fish, forgetting its primary duty of catching mice. It also reflects the plight of the powerless, who must pay tribute to corrupt officials and ruthless rulers in order to live peacefully.

While this was true in the past, it still holds relevance today, as the "evil cats" of corruption continue to exploit and drain the people. As a result, "The Wedding of the Mice" carries deep meaning, with its strong humanistic and realistic value, as well as its message of resistance against oppression.

Given its powerful message, "The Wedding of the Mice" is often displayed in workplaces or homes as a reminder to those in power to live ethically. It also serves as a moral lesson for the younger generation, encouraging them to avoid greed and corruption, so they can achieve lasting success while preserving virtues for future generations.

"The Coconut Harvest" is perhaps one of the most intriguing paintings in the Dong Ho folk art collection. The image of the coconut tree is seen as a symbol of romantic bliss. The white coconut and clear water represent the pure love between a couple. In this artwork, we see a strong and muscular man climbing the tree, plucking two coconuts, and handing them down to a woman, who is lifting her skirt to catch the coconuts (this detail is considered a unique artistic feature in Dong Ho paintings).

An interesting question arises here: Why does the man not pick the coconuts one by one and hand them down for the woman to catch with her hands? The man must be quite playful and mischievous. By picking two coconuts at once, if the woman were to catch them with her hands, they would likely fall, symbolizing the separation of happiness. The only way the woman can catch the coconuts is by lifting her skirt, symbolizing her acceptance of true love and happiness.

There is a verse written within the painting (read from right to left):
“Praise the one who skillfully planted the coconut tree,
Climbing here to catch the coconuts, just right for a couple.”

"The Coconut Harvest" is widely loved. It is a traditional folk painting symbolizing happiness, good fortune, and the beauty of love. It can be displayed in various places such as living rooms, offices, and more.

The image of the pig in Dong Ho folk art is perhaps one of the most beautifully depicted representations of this animal. Dong Ho, a village situated in a rural area, has a particularly charming and affectionate view of a domesticated animal that symbolizes prosperity and abundance. When people think of folk paintings featuring pigs, they almost always think of Dong Ho paintings. This is understandable, as Dong Ho paintings are among the most renowned and enduring, while other folk art traditions have gradually faded away.

In "The Yin and Yang Pigs", the animals are outlined with strong yet delicate lines, not only beautiful but also anatomically accurate. Every pig features swirling yin and yang markings, symbolizing growth and vitality. "The Yin and Yang Pigs" is the only painting in the Dong Ho collection printed in three different colors. The pig in Dong Ho art carries a special meaning: it represents wealth, prosperity, and the wish for a successful, prosperous new year. Consequently, the painting exudes a cheerful and lighthearted energy, much like the joy shared among family and friends.

"The Yin and Yang Pigs" is vibrant and striking, with intriguing stylized features: the swirling yin and yang patterns on the pigs' backs. The artist, no doubt, was an insightful observer, transforming the ordinary pig’s fur swirls into the philosophical symbols of yin and yang. The spirit of the simple, familiar countryside life radiates through the painting, evoking a deep connection to one's roots, reminding anyone far from home of their origins.

The elegant Dong Ho folk painting – Returning in Glory to Pay Homage to Ancestry is often bought to decorate homes as a wish for the success of the household. It also serves as a meaningful reminder and encouragement for younger generations to strive for success through hard work and study.

For this reason, the Dong Ho folk painting – Returning in Glory to Pay Homage to Ancestry is often displayed as a symbol of the family's achievements and a reminder for the younger generation to keep working towards their success.

The famous Dong Ho painting Ritual Wisdom - Benevolence represents the wish for future generations to grow up with the virtues of ritual wisdom and benevolence. In the painting, a young boy is seen holding a toad, symbolizing the wish for the child to excel in their studies. The Benevolence painting depicts a child holding a toad, which is an allusion to the Vietnamese folk tale “The Toad Sues Heaven,” or the famous saying:

“The toad is the uncle of Heaven

Anyone who strikes the toad will be struck by Heaven”

In this context, Heaven, as the ruler of the universe, is revered and feared. Yet, the toad, in this tale, is so bold as to challenge Heaven itself! It is the embodiment of courage and defiance. The inscription “Benevolence” on the painting serves as a blessing for children receiving this artwork, wishing them the qualities of humanity and love, just like the toad in the story: small and seemingly insignificant, yet daring enough to demand justice and rain for the village. The inscription “Benevolence” reflects the spirit of standing up for what is right, even against formidable odds. It’s a wish for the boy to grow into a wise and courageous man, ready to defend and fight for justice for others, embodying the essence of Benevolence as the toad did in the story.

The Four Seasons Duck and Lotus painting is part of the traditional Dong Ho Four Seasons series. This Duck and Lotus set tells a heartwarming story of unwavering loyalty, reflecting the exemplary marital relationship of the renowned statesman, Tống Trân. The first piece in this series depicts two birds, the “Hỉ Thước,” flying gracefully beside bamboo (symbolizing the noble man) and plum (representing the beautiful lady), which suggests a perfect union – a harmonious marriage.

The second painting in this Four Seasons series features a pair of ducks in a lotus pond. It represents success in exams, achieving top ranks, and symbolizes the absorption of positive energy and talent. This image is perfect for display in any home as a symbol of intellectual and spiritual prosperity.

The third piece shows chrysanthemums and phoenixes, symbolizing the enduring love between husband and wife. Chrysanthemums, one of the four noble flowers in Chinese culture, symbolize longevity, nobility, and abundant wealth. They also represent the unyielding spirit of a noble person. In ancient times, people admired chrysanthemums for their resilience, as even their leaves did not fall off, much like the enduring principles of a virtuous person. The painting of phoenixes on separate branches symbolizes separation but everlasting devotion, regardless of circumstances.

The fourth piece in the set portrays a family of chickens beside roses. Roses, blooming year-round, represent wealth and warmth, symbolizing a prosperous and loving family. The image of the rooster, hen, and their chicks searching for food together concludes this Four Seasons series with a beautiful depiction of family harmony and enduring happiness, overcoming life's challenges together.

Dong Ho Folk Art - Child Holding Shrimp and Fish represents the joy of the new year, symbolized by a chubby child holding a plump carp. In Vietnamese folk culture, the fish is a symbol of education, progress, and career advancement.

The first part of this painting features a plump, cute child holding a shrimp. The shrimp, though rare in traditional artwork, is a familiar symbol of Vietnamese life, often depicted in art. The shrimp’s ability to move underwater and crawl on land, even swimming backward at times, is an allegory for human adaptability, suggesting resilience and the ability to excel in various environments, always striving for success.

The second part of the painting shows a little girl holding a fish, another auspicious symbol of prosperity for the new year. The fish is closely tied to Vietnamese culture as a symbol of learning and career advancement, embodying the hope for academic and professional success in the year ahead.

Dong Ho Folk Art - Village Festival is a traditional piece that reflects gratitude to ancestors and those who have contributed to the nation and the community, following the Vietnamese principle of “When drinking water, remember the source.” The painting also depicts the vibrant life and activities of rural people. The village festival is seen as a spiritual nourishment, creating intellectual values deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture.

Today, the cultural beauty of our nation is still preserved, with people continuing to celebrate village festivals in accordance with tradition. The “Village Festival” painting holds deep humanistic value, reminding the younger generation to always remember their roots and those who have paved the way for their success.

"Rooster with Rose" is a painting symbolizing abundance, a bountiful harvest, and a prosperous life. It represents simple and heartfelt wishes for happiness and well-being, which everyone desires. As a result, this artwork is commonly displayed in homes. The Rooster with Rose painting depicts the everyday life of farmers. For Vietnamese people, roosters are closely tied to childhood memories and family life. The crowing of a rooster heralds a new day and a fresh start. It symbolizes the sun rising to bring warmth and prosperity, just as the rice farmers depend on the cycle of the seasons for a successful harvest.

Additionally, the rooster is a symbol of the five virtues of a man: literature, martial arts, courage, kindness, and trustworthiness. These are qualities that every man of honor strives to possess. The rose, on the other hand, represents wealth, prosperity, and a life of comfort. Thus, the image of the rooster holding a rose conveys wishes for good fortune, and it is widely purchased for display in homes as a blessing for a new beginning, success in work, and a prosperous, happy family life.

"Mother Hen and Her Chicks" is another beloved painting often displayed in homes as a symbol of peace, safety, and the hope for a prosperous family life. It reflects wishes for families to have children, for couples to start their families soon, and for a life filled with happiness and fulfillment.

No Vietnamese New Year celebration is complete without a traditional Dong Ho folk painting. To not have one hanging on the wall would feel like the absence of the New Year spirit itself. Each painting, whether it features chickens or pigs, symbolizes wealth, a growing family, and domestic happiness.

Hanging a Mother Hen and Her Chicks painting in the home during Tet expresses the desire for a happy, prosperous family. The saying, “A house with many children is a blessed home,” reflects the deep wish for a family filled with joy, vitality, and strong bonds. The health and happiness of the younger generations are integral to the prosperity of the family. Additionally, this painting symbolizes the deep maternal love—one mother can nurture many children, but no child can care for a mother in the same way. This is an essential lesson for the younger generation to understand, especially for the future of the nation.

The painting The Toad Teacher belongs to the traditional folk art of Dong Ho village. During the Tet market, many Vietnamese mothers buy this painting for their children, hoping it will encourage them to study diligently and become smart and bright. The painting depicts a lively classroom where toads, frogs, and other amphibians are engaged in a bustling scene, with a large toad sitting comfortably on a platform teaching. Though the creatures are depicted, they act with human-like traits.

The inscription on the painting reads, "Lao Oa độc giảng," meaning the old toad teaches alone. While "Oa" can be translated as "toad," the painting is commonly known as "The Toad Teacher", with the word "độc" meaning "reading" but also carrying the connotation of being alone. The image of the toad has existed in Vietnamese culture for a long time. Those familiar with ancient Vietnamese bronze drums or the Dong Son culture will recognize the toad depicted in these artifacts. Once seen as the 'godfather' in Vietnamese folklore, the toad here is portrayed humbly as an elderly teacher.

The painting The Toad Teacher is a well-known piece symbolizing education and is often given as a gift to children or students, wishing them diligence, a love for learning, and intelligence in their studies.

"Peace is for dancing like the peacock,

Peace is for beauty like the rose,

Peace is what everyone wishes for,

We love the Dong Ho village’s traditional paintings."

The peacock, also known as the 'Phuong Hoan' bird in Feng Shui, is revered as a symbol of prosperity. Its dazzling, iridescent feathers form a stunning fan shape, leaving a memorable impression. The male peacock boasts this magnificent tail, while the female lacks such a feature. During the feudal era, only officials of Fifth Rank and above were allowed to wear peacock feathers on their hats, making the bird a symbol of power, wealth, and influence.

The painting 'World Peace' belongs to the genre of Tet greetings, capturing the image of a radiant peacock by a rose bush, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous, peaceful, and flourishing nation.

The game of swinging is commonly played during the traditional Lunar New Year or spring festivals at local village celebrations. In the days leading up to the New Year, villagers select the finest bamboo trees to set up the swing poles. These poles are usually erected in an open space in the village's communal grounds.

This painting reflects the cultural beauty of Vietnamese farmers. It symbolizes the harmony between heaven and earth, wishing for peaceful weather and a bountiful harvest. The image of a couple participating in the swing game represents pure love and affection, flourishing in the joyful spring atmosphere. The game also expresses the youthful desire to conquer and soar high. The painting 'Swinging' captures the essence of Vietnamese culture, portraying simplicity, closeness, and deep meaning, inspiring future generations to dream big with passion, youth, and love.

The painting of the cowherd flying a kite depicts a charming young boy flying a kite while sitting on the back of a buffalo. The painting also includes the phrase: 'The best fortune and harvest come from a good farmer.' This image portrays a simple and peaceful rural life, capturing the essence of the old countryside.

The painting 'The Cowherd Flying a Kite' with its serene village setting symbolizes the farmers' hope for a prosperous and peaceful life. It expresses the wish for favorable weather for a bountiful harvest. The image of a bright, obedient boy helping his parents herd buffalo, while being creative and skilled in flying a kite on the buffalo's back, reflects the joy and pride of the family. The painting overall conveys the desire for a life full of peace, warmth, happiness, and successful, intelligent, respectful children.

Artist Nguyễn Đăng Chế came up with a brilliant idea: a vertical lotus leaf, like an umbrella, with a buffalo standing calmly, its neck craned as if listening intently to the sound of a flute. The posture and demeanor of the buffalo suggest the soothing sound of the flute reverberating through the clear, endless sky. It portrays a life of perfect tranquility and serenity.

As you view the painting 'The Buffalo Herd Boy Playing the Flute', it transports you to a place of peace, where your soul feels free and at ease. The painting also features the phrase 'Hà diệp cái thanh thanh' (Green lotus leaf umbrella), while the folk title for this artwork is 'Thiên thanh lộng suy địch' (The Clear Sky Resonates with the Flute's Melody).

The image depicts a young boy sitting on the buffalo’s back, playfully blowing a flute, while the buffalo, without any reins, lifts its head as if in harmony with the boy. Above the boy’s head, a large lotus leaf is exaggerated in size but remains balanced within the composition. This visual concept conveys wisdom and humanity, symbolizing the peacefulness of everyday life. The lotus leaf covering the boy's head is reminiscent of the nêu pole—an emblem of balance with nature.

The folk description of the painting further emphasizes this theme: 'Thiên thanh lộng suy địch' (The Clear Sky Resonates with the Flute's Melody). The idea reflects how, when the soul is at peace, it can freely merge with the vast sky and the universe. Others interpret the painting as a metaphor for ambition, illustrating the story of a gifted boy in ancient times whose talents were not recognized. Using a buffalo’s back as a palanquin and a lotus leaf as an umbrella, he created a miniature throne fit for royalty, symbolizing his desire to rise above and achieve greatness. This painting is a meaningful and fitting piece to display during the Lunar New Year.

"The Rooster Crows Five Times" is a famous painting from the Đông Hồ folk art tradition. The central figure in the painting is a proud and fearless rooster, standing tall in a regal pose, unfazed by any potential threats. The rooster embodies the virtue of faithfulness—each morning it crows five times, without fail, regardless of weather. As a close companion to farmers, the rooster is a reliable alarm clock, always waking people at the right time with its proud crowing.

The five Chinese characters in the painting symbolize the following values: Humanity - Righteousness - Propriety - Wisdom - Faithfulness:

• Humanity: Compassion for all beings.
• Righteousness: Treating others justly, according to what is right.
• Propriety: Showing respect and harmony in interactions.
• Wisdom: Understanding logic, distinguishing right from wrong.
• Faithfulness: Keeping one’s word, being trustworthy.

The pair of paintings, "Vinh Hoa – Phú Quý", is highly unique in that they must be displayed together to fully convey their intended meaning. This duo carries a deep symbolism of wishing for prosperity and wealth in the family. It represents the aspiration for a life of richness and abundance, with the old belief that a large family with many children and grandchildren is a fortunate one. Additionally, the pair symbolizes the desire for a complete family—both sons and daughters—bringing balance and harmony.

Because of these meaningful associations, the "Vinh Hoa – Phú Quý" paintings are often purchased and hung in homes during the Lunar New Year as a blessing for prosperity, success, and happiness. They serve as wishes for the family to be wealthy, abundant, and blessed with both sons and daughters, ensuring a well-rounded, harmonious household.