Brian Jeffrey
Vietnam Museum Acquires Painting by King Ham Nghi
On November 12, the Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts celebrated the acquisition of The Hills of Deli Ibrahim (Algiers), a painting by King Ham Nghi, along with the release of Dr. Amandine Dabat’s book titled Ham Nghi: Exiled Emperor, Artist in Algiers, a work reflecting on the king’s legacy by one of his descendants.
Nguyen Anh Minh, the museum’s Director, highlighted the importance of this artwork for both the museum and Vietnamese culture. “Accepting this painting symbolizes our respect for King Ham Nghi’s lineage, who have gifted us this remarkable piece created by a national hero. It enhances our collection and serves as a rich resource for researchers interested in the artistic developments of late 19th to early 20th century Vietnam,” Minh commented.
Created in 1908, The Hills of Deli Ibrahim (Algiers) captures the serene rural setting close to the king’s home in the capital city of Algeria. Dr. Dabat noted that the painting, which features a sunset rendered in striking backlighting, stands out as one of Ham Nghi’s key works. Influenced by the French pointillist movement, the king skillfully portrayed vibrant evening hues with lively brush strokes.
Dr. Dabat elaborated on the painting’s significance and its return to Vietnam: “This artwork was selected for repatriation following discussions with the family. It showcases Ham Nghi’s venture into post-impressionism, having been displayed in Paris at the Mantelet-Colette Weil Gallery in 1926, labeled as The Hills of Deli Ibrahim (Algiers) and signed ‘Tu Xuan.’” She expressed hope that this transfer might encourage the return of additional artworks by Ham Nghi in the future.
King Ham Nghi, born in 1871, became king in 1884. Following the fall of Hue in 1885, he declared the Can Vuong edict to mobilize patriots against colonialism. He was captured by French forces in 1888 and subsequently exiled to Algiers, where he lived in a villa on El Biar hill for the rest of his life, maintaining Vietnamese traditions until his death in early 1944.
Tinh Le
