Drying soy material, Hanoi, Vietnam

Description

Mrs. Son, 82, dries fermented rice in the yard of her old home in Duong Lam Ancient Village in western Hanoi, Vietnam. This type of fermented rice is an ingredient used to make traditional soy sauce. This has been Son’s family heritage for more than 60 years.

National Geographic Your Shot – Feb 23, 2020

This remarkable fine-art print captures the essence of Mrs. Son’s timeless tradition in Duong Lam Ancient Village, situated in the picturesque landscapes of western Hanoi, Vietnam. At 82 years old, Mrs. Son continues to preserve her family’s legacy by meticulously drying fermented rice in the quaint yard of her ancestral home.

The photograph transports viewers to the heart of Duong Lam, where the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam comes to life. The simplicity of the scene belies the profound significance it holds—the centuries-old practice of creating traditional soy sauce from carefully fermented rice. Mrs. Son’s weathered hands, weathered yet resilient, tell a story of dedication and continuity that spans more than six decades.

The composition skillfully captures the authenticity of the moment, showcasing the tangible connection between Mrs. Son and her family’s culinary legacy. The play of light and shadow accentuates the textures of the aged surroundings, from the timeworn walls of the ancient village to the subtle nuances of the drying rice.

This fine-art print serves as a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of tradition and the unwavering commitment of individuals like Mrs. Son. It invites admirers to immerse themselves in the vivid narrative of a life shaped by heritage, where every grain of fermented rice symbolizes the passing down of knowledge from one generation to the next. As a piece of art, it not only captivates the eye but also sparks a contemplative journey into the cultural tapestry of Duong Lam Ancient Village.