
This paper examines the ceramic statue set of the Three Great Emperor-Officials (Tam Quan Đại Đế), an antique ensemble of nine statues dating from the early 20th century, produced by the Bửu Nguyên kiln in Đề Ngạn (Saigon). Through artefact analysis, iconographic interpretation, and interdisciplinary methods, the study deciphers the cultural and historical values embodied in the set, from the Han-script inscriptions “堤岸埠” (Đề Ngạn Phụ – De Ngan Port) and “寶源造” (Bửu Nguyên Tạo – Made by Buu Nguyen) to the distinctive ceramic glazing techniques. The paper highlights two dimensions of significance: first, the set as an example of industrial heritage (a ceramic art form), and second, as a symbolic object of belief. The findings suggest that the statues vividly materialise the doctrine of the “celestial bureaucracy,” directly addressing communal needs for “granting blessings, pardoning sins, and praying for health.” Moreover, the set stands as a quintessential testament to the cultural identity of Saigon - Southern Vietnam, characterised by profound religious syncretism (Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism) and a dynamic process of creative indigenisation. Ultimately, the study clarifies the close interconnection between Saigon’s ceramic technology and the belief-driven practices of the Southern Vietnam community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Three Great Emperors - Officials, Southern Vietnam beliefs, culture, Saigon ceramics
Three Great Emperors - Officials, Southern Vietnam beliefs, culture, Saigon ceramics
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 0 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Average | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Average | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Average |
