TRẦN NGUYÊN DŨNG (VIETNAM, 20TH CENTURY) ‘Thị Mầu Lên Chùa’ (Thi Mau goes to the Temple) Colors on paper Signed, titled and dated 1992 on the lower right Also bears an artist seal to the lower right Framed TRẦN NGUYÊN DŨNG (VIỆT NAM, THẾ KỶ 20) “Thị Mầu Lên Chùa” (Thi Mau goes to the Temple) Notes: 1. Trần Nguyên Dũng, although not as known as some other painters, seems to have been respected amongst scholars. He is believed to be from Hanoï city. 2. The subject of this painting is a Chèo play, a form of generally satirical musical theatre, often encompassing dance, traditionally performed by Vietnamese peasants in northern Vietnam. It is usually performed outdoors by semi-amateur touring groups, stereotypically in a village square or the courtyard of a public building. Hát chèo's origins date to the 12th century during the Lý Dynasty and has existed in its present form since roughly the 16th century. It derives from folk traditions, and was orally transmitted; unlike courtly theater traditions, it employs no scenery and sparse costumes and makeup. This piece comes from the story of 'Lady Buddha'. Thi Mau is a flirtatious character and undoubtedly the favorite of most Vietnamese people. She comes from a rich but strict family that never allows her to leave the house, except on the 15th of every month where she is permitted to go to the temple to pray. As this monthly trip is her only day of freedom, she takes the opportunity to flirt with as many boys as she can find. She comes across one particular monk and falls for him instantly. She tries everything to win the heart of this young monk, including throwing apples at him, but to no avail. What she does not realize is this monk is in fact a woman dressed up as a man. NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.