From February, 2016, when Vietnam began preparations for 2017 APEC, the Department of Fine Arts, Photography and Exhibition coordinated with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to order the highest quality Vietnamese silk to serve the ceremonial costume for the senior leaders of APEC 2017.
The heads of state attending APEC 2017 were made to wear a long-sleeve shirt, which was made of the highest quality Vietnamese silk. The shirts, designed by Nguyen Thi Thu Ha and tailored by Do Manh Hung, were hand-woven and hand-dyed by artisan Nguyen Trong Tu, using his family’s traditional, secret technique.
The shirt’s buttons were carved with 21 modified sun rays, representing the 21 APEC economies. The sun rays are interlocked into a ring to symbolise the close connection and solidarity of APEC. Inside the ring features stylised images of oars and lac birds, a symbol found on ancient Dong Son bronze drums, aiming to highlight Vietnam’s rich and long-standing culture.
The original colour of bamboo was kept for the box, creating a natural touch for the design. The name of the leader was engraved onto a piece of bronze, which is attached on the box. The surface of the box was decorated with a lotus, which was inspired from the pattern found in Thang Long Royal Citadel.
Through the products of the country’s traditional crafts, Vietnam’s culture was spotlighted at APEC 2017, while conveying the Vietnamese President’s sincere blessing towards the international guests.
The display runs until December 17 at the Hanoi Old Quarter Culture Exchange Centre in Hanoi, No. 50 Dao Duy Tu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
