A remarkable national treasure dating back to the 17th century is being preserved at King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple within the Special National Relic Site of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in Ninh Binh Province. Known as the Phu Viet, the pair of ceremonial wooden axes remains one of the most distinctive artifacts associated with Vietnam’s royal worship traditions.
The pair of 17th-century wooden Phu Viet relics preserved at King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple.
The Phu Viet set consists of two lacquered wooden pieces positioned symmetrically on either side of the incense altar in the temple’s main worship hall. Each measures approximately three meters in length, weighs around 45 kilograms and is composed of three sections: the head, blade and handle.
According to representatives of Ninh Binh’s Department of Culture and Sports, the Phu Viet was inspired by the form of a battle axe. Originally a type of weapon, it later evolved into a ceremonial object used in ritual processions and worship practices dedicated to national heroes. Over time, it became a sacred symbol within Vietnam’s spiritual and religious traditions.
Each ceremonial piece measures three meters in length, weighs approximately 45 kilograms and consists of a head, blade and handle.
What makes the Phu Viet at King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple particularly exceptional is the sophistication of its design. The artifact transcends the appearance of a practical weapon, transforming instead into an elaborate work of sculptural art.
The head of each Phu Viet features a large dragon, often described as a mother dragon, surrounded by five smaller dragons clustered together in what is known as a "dragon nest." The mother dragon’s body twists through nine flowing curves, descending downward while its tail rises upward. The five young dragons intertwine around it in similar poses, appearing and disappearing among flame-like motifs that create a vivid sense of movement.
The blade is shaped like a burst of sacred fire emerging from the mouth of the larger dragon while still retaining the outline of a traditional battle axe. Meanwhile, the octagonal handle is crafted on such a grand scale that it cannot easily be encircled by a person’s arms.
Experts regard the Phu Viet as a pinnacle of Vietnamese wood sculpture, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of 17th-century artisans. By transforming a weapon into a highly symbolic artwork, the creators infused it with meanings that extend beyond military power. The "dragon nest" motif is widely interpreted as representing inner strength, national unity and a longing for peace.
A mother dragon and five young dragons are sculpted together to form a symbolic "dragon nest."
The Phu Viet is a unique original artifact from the golden age of Vietnamese folk woodcarving.
The artifact is a unique original piece from what is often considered the golden age of Vietnamese folk woodcarving. It was commissioned by the royal court and the people of Hoa Lu as a ceremonial offering dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, honoring the ruler who established the first centralized feudal state in Vietnam during the 10th century.
In recognition of its exceptional historical, artistic and cultural value, the Phu Viet was officially designated a National Treasure in 2020.
Tran Nghi
Vietnamnet.vn
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