Polearm of the Fifth Mandarin

This piece depicts the  ceremonial polearm (long đao), the iconic weapon associated with the Fifth Mandarin (Quan Đệ Ngũ Tuần Tranh) in the Vietnamese Mother Goddess tradition of the Three and Four Palaces. Painted in acrylic on natural bamboo, the work highlights the weapon’s distinctive curved blade, adorned with intricate dragon motifs symbolizing protection, authority, and spiritual force. The vibrant red shaft and gilded details evoke the ritual energy of lên đồng practice, while the bamboo surface preserves the organic texture of traditional Vietnamese craft. Together, these elements create a striking fusion of sacred symbolism and contemporary artistic interpretation.