Le Duong
According to Mr. Trinh Dinh Duong, Director of the Thanh Hoa Provincial Museum, the museum houses over 30,000 ancient artifacts. Among them is the notable a bell of Meo Pagoda (Dinh Mieu Pagoda), recognized as Dai Hong Chung (great bell).
Linked to the history of Meo Pagoda in Quang Hien Commune, presently Lang Chanh Town, Lang Chanh District, Thanh Hoa Province, this bell holds significant historical resonance. Erected during the 13th century under the Tran Dynasty, the pagoda succumbed to the ravages of time and war, leading to its eventual destruction. Consequently, the bronze bell went missing. It was then found by the Lang Chanh District Police. In 1992, it was handed over to the Thanh Hoa Provincial Museum.
Historical records reveal that this bronze bell, aged over 300 years, was crafted with meticulous care by hand. It boasts impressive dimensions, with a face diameter measuring 50cm, a height of 109cm, and a circumference of 149cm. Its cylindrical form exhibits a flared mouth and gentle tapering towards the apex, accentuated by four round knobs that divide it into two parts. Additionally, the bell is adorned with a striking embossed edge, adding to its allure.
The handle of the bell portrays a graceful depiction of two dragons facing each other, creating a captivating curve. At its apex, the handle takes on the appearance of a segmented wine jar, adding to its intricate design.
An outstanding feature gracing the bell's body is the presence of inscriptions in Chinese characters. These inscriptions praise the bell's melodious resonance and pay homage to the countless individuals from Thanh Hoa who contributed to the casting of this magnificent bell at Meo Pagoda.
Alongside the ancient bell, the museum safeguards two jackfruit wood parrot statues dating back approximately 400 years, originating from the 17th and 18th centuries. Remarkably, despite the passage of centuries, these statues remain nearly intact, adorned with exquisitely intricate patterns.
These statues were acquired from Nghe Vet in Vinh Hung commune, Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province, adding further depth to the museum's collection of historical treasures.