Khe Van Khac - Hanoi Temple of Literature

A modern-day symbol of Hanoi and situated inside the grounds of the temple of literature, this unique architectural work was built in 1805. Khue Van Cac was previously interpreted that: "Khue" means a bright star, Khue Van Cac is a symbol of the peak of wisdom, a place to attract and train "talented people to become the national principle".

Khue Van Cac has 8 decorated roof edges, 2 floors, and the top roof is 9. According to Vietnamese culture of the 13th and 19th centuries, these numbers represent the growth. The appearance of Khue Van Cac is a square which represents the ground. The round windows represent the sky, where all the quintessence of heaven and earth gathers. Therefore, Khue Van Cac is a symbol of people's desire to arise and develop, both in accordance with the thinking and aspirations of the ancients, as well as the people the developments desires of today and a symbol of the capital with a thousand years of civilization.

Limited edition of only 3, single layer woodcuts on translucent white Vietnamese dzo paper, hand painted with watercolour.

Made from a 20x30cm Japanese magnolia wood block.