HANOI: The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum held a ceremony on November 12 to receive a painting titled ‘Hillsides in Deli Ibrahim (Algiers)’ by Ham Nghi, an exiled Vietnamese king, and introduce the book ‘Ham Nghi – Exiled Emperor, Artist in Algeria’. Ham Nghi (1871-1944), personal name Nguyen Phuc Minh, came to the throne in 1884 and was the 8th king of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). After the imperial city of Hue was lost in 1885, he left the capital and issued the ‘Can Vuong’ (aid the king) edict, calling for patriots to rise up to regain independence and freedom. He was detained by the French colonialists in 1888 and exiled in Algiers the following year.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the event not only highlighted the artistic talents of Ham Nghi but also shed light on his life in exile and his contributions to the arts. The painting, ‘Hillsides in Deli Ibrahim (Algiers)’, is a testament to Ham Nghi’s enduring creativity and his adaptation to life outside his homeland. The accompanying book, ‘Ham Nghi – Ex
iled Emperor, Artist in Algeria’, provides further insights into his artistic journey and personal history during his years in Algiers.

The ceremony underscored the cultural significance of Ham Nghi’s work and his unique place in Vietnam’s history. The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum expressed appreciation for the opportunity to showcase the painting, which serves as a bridge connecting Vietnamese heritage with the broader world of art. The event also aimed to inspire future generations to explore the rich tapestry of Vietnamese history and its intersection with art.