Why Sơn Mài Painting Is So Expensive | So Expensive

Sơn mài is a traditional Vietnamese form of lacquer painting. Created using a toxic lacquer harvested from one region of the country, it requires months of application and sanding back layers of paint to build up the image. Last year, a sơn mài painting sold at auction for $972,000. So what makes these paintings so special? And why are they so expensive?

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Why Sơn Mài Painting Is So Expensive | So Expensive

[MellyVuong]

The way the narrator pronounces "sơn mài" sounds pretty accurate. Other than that it's great to see Vietnamese culture being globalized

[greggwareham]

I see this with many niche traditions these days. Globalization is great, but videos like this really need to be produced to help promote and ensure the longevity of these timeless cultures.

[tuongkhuyenle]

Such a surprise seeing Vietnam traditional art form being featured here. The artist Phạm Chính Trung has such a pleasant voice. The way he emphasized the important of conservation at the end is so touching. Incisive without pushing the ideal on anyone. Even though Sơn Mài has always been mentioned when we talk about Vietnam artistry, I never know it was made by such a complicated and interesting process. Props to all the crew for amazing cinematography and well-research document. Hope this could reach more people, both international and Vietnamese audiences.

[antheacao]

I had the pleasure of seeing these Son Mai paintings in person many years ago. There was a quaint little art gallery near my high school, where I often wandered in after school hours. The gallery owner had the patience and kindness to tell me about each of the paintings, how they were made, and their motifs. I can assure you that these paintings are even more striking in real life. The juxtaposition of different textures, vibrancy of the colours, and level of detail involved is incredible.

Not long ago, I went back to visit the area for the first time in years. When I found out that the art gallery was no longer there, I was momentarily struck with an overwhelming sense of grief. I had a turbulent childhood and a rough time at school. That little gallery with the priceless Son Mai paintings was like an oasis, a window into a world of beauty and refinement. I don't think I'll ever forget it.

[koalak]

The artist looked really happy talking about his paintings process

[bierollingaround]

“Sơn mài”, sơn is paint, pigment and mài is grinding
As a Vietnamese, I didn’t know Sơn Mài is a unique/traditional thing.
Last Saturday, I visited Ho Chi Minh Art Museum, there’s a really big son mai piece, as large as the wall (200x540cm), and already recognized as the national treasure. It’s “Vườn Xuân Trung Nam Bắc” (Central South and North Spring Garden) painted by Nguyễn Gia Trí.
If you love art and love Vietnam, definitely worth a visit, the ticker price only cost 1$

[mattakubodimasen]

Imagine my utter surprise when I saw the featured artist oh my god ahaha
He's a very well-known artist/art teacher in Vietnam art community. I saw him a few times at popular art gallery openings like Mộng Bích's last winter. I stared at him for like a minute because why did he look so familiar?! I rememebered after going home and felt so honoured to be in the presence of so many great artists.

[infinitybts]

*His happy while talking about the process and his painting success, priceless*

[aferak]

This guy is so nice and friendly I can tell even though he speaks a different language

[milanam]

I am an Indian artist struggling to sell my art, I am so happy that such an amazing art style is getting the recognition it deserves I know the pain and effort that each artist puts into their artwork so happy about it. As a last resort, I will be selling my artwork on eBay next week all I can do is hope that I sell my art for a decent price and I just aspire to be like him one day. thanks for motivating me and not letting me lose hope.

[sarahmccollum]

Rarely does my feed lead me to a video that is so educational as well as entertaining. I admire this guy. His last sentence was very true about how we must have more people that are interested in this craft now otherwise it will die. Oh man, I'm your Huckleberry!🤗

[hmvu]

I’m not sure if it’s the final result or not, but at 5:48 you can see the depth of red and black colors while the surface of the painting is still smooth under the sunlight after he washed it. Just fascinating!
For anyone who wonders why toxic paints were used on wood, it’s not only because of the beauty of colors that they can bring up, but it is also similar to aging wood for construction; it helps protect the art work from being damaged by insects and humidity in Vietnam.

[janakakumara]

I remember going to a Vietnamese Lacquer painting exhibition may years ago. It was stunning. Truely items of beauty. Thanks for sharing how they are done.

[FullMetalFan]

I love how instead of monopolzing his craft, he is trying to spread it and teach it, so the culture can remain. I have seen the same attitude towards the future from the vietnamese lady doing lotus silk. You gotta love vietnamese people for that!

[samareno]

now this is the only expensive art i would really buy. not that so called blank paintings and abstract.

[loctruong]

I'm Vietnamese and I am so proud when seeing video about Vietnamese people and culture. I saw Dong Tao chicken a few weeks ago. Thank you so much, Business Insider. 😍

[JustFruits]

He needs a pupil willing to learn the craft.

I would but don't live there.

[huanlecongquoc]

Me: Finally, no need translation now!!!

[filip]

"Cant dry in dry weather" makes total sense, i think the word your looking for is "curing"

[baldchook]

I have one gifted over 20 years ago 😮. Didn't know they were expensive 😳