Lacquer Painting ( Five Tigers-The Red Tiger)

Vietnamese lacquer paintings are created by using the resin of the lacquer tree combined with mineral pigments and other materials such as gold, silver foil, mother-of-pearl, and snail shell to create a smooth, glossy coating on wooden surfaces. These lacquer paintings are often painted on wooden panels (vóc), which are then coated with layer upon layer of lacquer to create a beautiful glossy effect. The lacquer technique requires sophistication and skill from the artisans who perform it.

The “Xích Hổ” (Red Tiger) represents the color red, which governs the South direction and corresponds to the Fire element (hành Hỏa). In the principle of the Five Elements’ mutual generation (ngũ hành tương sinh), the Red Tiger embodies life, symbolizing fire, justice, honor, as well as an undying spirit, enthusiasm, and courageous heart.

Those born in the years of the Tiger, Horse, and Dog are very well-suited to display a painting of the tiger in their home, as it is believed to bring much luck, wealth, and power to the homeowner. The “Xích Hổ” aligns with the Fire element (mệnh Hỏa), making it particularly harmonious for individuals who have the Fire and Earth elements (mệnh Hỏa and mệnh Thổ) in their Feng Shui birth charts.