Son Kieu Phong, 46, the proud owner of the artwork titled “Nhat Long Giang”, has repeatedly turned down offers to sell it, including a $640,000 bid from a collector in Hai Phong.

Currently displayed at Phong’s family-owned café, the 9-ton, 6-meter-long, 4-meter-tall sculpture is an intricate masterpiece that blends Vietnamese history, culture, and nature into a single wooden artwork.

A passion for wood carving and a lucky discovery

Phong has always been passionate about wooden sculptures, often traveling to find large tree roots to be transformed into stunning carvings.

In 2019, he stumbled upon a massive oil tree root in a local garden. After learning that the tree was over 300 years old and had a root diameter of 2 meters, he immediately purchased it, transported it home, and began planning his vision.

“The transportation was difficult because of its enormous size and weight, but I knew it was a rare treasure,” Phong said.

Determined to create something meaningful, he collaborated with master artisan Son Soc from Chua Hang, Tra Vinh, and together, they spent 14 months crafting the final masterpiece.

A sculpture rich in history and symbolism

“Nhat Long Giang” is unique because it is sculpted on both sides of a single tree root.

The front side showcases the 12 zodiac animals, symbolizing Vietnamese folklore, surrounded by 12 doves, representing peace and prosperity.

At its center, a large clock features the map of Vietnam, along with images of Ba Dinh Square, the Tra Vinh welcome gate, and 12 Lac birds, symbolizing Vietnamese heritage.

On the back side, Phong included 70 species of animals, depicting creatures from land, water, and air to highlight Vietnam’s rich biodiversity and the importance of conservation.

One particularly striking detail is the clock hands set at 11:30 AM, the exact time of April 30, 1975, marking the fall of Saigon and Vietnam’s reunification.

“I wanted this sculpture to remind people of our country’s history, culture, and the need to preserve nature,” Phong explained.

An artwork of national and international recognition

Upon completion, “Nhat Long Giang” was recognized by the Vietnam Record Association as the largest two-sided wooden sculpture depicting history, culture, and nature.

The artwork later gained international recognition when the Asia Book of Records awarded it the title of Asia’s most unique two-sided wooden sculpture.

Despite numerous purchase offers, Phong remains unwavering in his decision not to sell.

“I want this masterpiece to remain a symbol of culture and history, something that future generations can admire. Money cannot replace the pride and meaning behind this artwork,” he said.

Hoai Thanh