From Robe to Kettle: Sacred flower motif on copper

On one side, blooming peonies, one of the “Four Seasons” flowers, symbolize prosperity, grace, and eternal renewal. Bright yellow butterflies dance among the blossoms, evoking vitality and the soul’s gentle ascension. On the reverse, delicate floral borders and ornamental swirls unfold in soft acrylic hues, echoing the embroidered patterns found on ritual robes worn during lên đồng (spirit possession ceremonies).

In Đạo Mẫu, such motifs are never mere decoration; they embody blessings, beauty, and divine presence. By translating these sacred designs onto a humble household object, the kettle becomes more than a vessel – it becomes a bridge between the everyday and the spiritual, carrying the aura of ritual into daily life. This piece celebrates the fusion of folk belief, artistic devotion, and the timeless aesthetics of Vietnam’s indigenous faith.