On 21/4, Mr. Nguyen Phuoc Hai Trung, Deputy Director of the Hue Monuments Conservation Center, chaired a meeting with researchers and construction units to discuss plans for restoring the Minh Khiem Duong theater ceiling decoration and review the On Khiem Duong restoration plan.

The debate focused on the fact that the constellations on the theater ceiling, after restoration, did not match Nguyen Dynasty historical records or the structure's current condition. The construction unit reported that during dismantling, no star details made of copper-wrapped glass, as described by researchers, were found. This made restoration difficult and led to a temporary halt of this item. The Hue Monuments Project Management Board later took over the design and construction of the ceiling decoration for completion.

According to Mr. Ho Huu Hanh, Director of Hue Monuments Restoration Joint Stock Company, during the dismantling process, his unit collected several metal artifacts suspected to be decorative constellation details. Based on documents and research on "nhi thap bat tu" (the twenty-eight mansions in traditional East Asian astronomy), the unit drafted a plan to arrange 28 constellations on the Minh Khiem Duong ceiling and intends to adjust the construction. Similar patterns previously found on the Ngo Mon bell and the Kham Thien Giam wall served as a basis for comparison.

Artifacts believed to be decorative constellations at Minh Khiem Duong theater. Photo: Vo Thanh

However, many opinions suggested clarifying the nature of the artifacts before finalizing any restoration plan. Researcher Nguyen Xuan Hoa emphasized the need to precisely identify the material, whether copper, lead, tin, or glass, and whether the "stars'" surface structure was silver-plated mirror or polished metal. He stated that incorrect material identification could lead to an inauthentic restoration.

Researcher Pham Duc Thanh Dung also noted that the precise number of stars on the ceiling remains undetermined. He suggested that the Bac Dau constellation (the Big Dipper) might be present, but the overall layout still requires further investigation.

Concluding the meeting, Mr. Nguyen Phuoc Hai Trung requested a thorough review of all collected materials. He also asked for clarification on whether the connecting lines between the constellations were painted or made of metal wires before the decorative ceiling's completion.

Regarding On Khiem Duong, suggestions were made to re-evaluate the structure's original function during King Tu Duc's reign, particularly emphasizing the preservation of the rear storage area for royal artifacts. The Center will hold a separate meeting to finalize the restoration plan for this component.

An overview of King Tu Duc's tomb currently undergoing restoration. Photo: Vo Thanh

The restoration project for King Tu Duc's tomb complex commenced in 6/2024, with a total budget exceeding 99 billion VND. This comprehensive project includes Hoa Khiem Palace, Minh Khiem Duong, and On Khiem Duong. Minh Khiem Duong, recognized as Vietnam's oldest royal theater, is now nearing completion, with other components still underway.

Vo Thanh