Hanoi: An artwork titled ‘President Ho Chi Minh Proclaiming the Declaration of Independence’ by artist Chu Nhat Quang has officially been recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest single-piece lacquer painting. The artwork measures 2.4 metres by 7.2 metres, spanning over 17 square metres, weighing three tonnes, and was completed on a single double-sided panel without joins. The front face recreates the historic moment at Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945, when President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence that gave birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. The reverse side, titled “Mua xuan dan toc’ (spring of the nation), symbolises the jubilation, peace aspirations, and happiness of the Vietnamese nation.
According to Vietnam News Agency, the recognition by Guinness World Records highlights the significance of the artwork not only in terms of its size and craftsmanship but also in its cultural and historical value. By capturing the iconic moment of Vietnam’s independence, the artwork serves as a tribute to the nation’s history and aspirations. The dual themes of independence and national joy are artistically represented on the two sides of the lacquer painting, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Vietnamese people.