This print is made on handmade mulberry paper using a woodblock and inks, which are coloured with natural materials such as red, made from the mineral cinnabar, and black made from burnt bamboo leaf. The inks are mixed with crushed oyster shells to give thickness and a shiny finish. Sometimes a wash of oyster shell is painted on to the paper first to create a pale ground against which the colours are overlaid. The range of subject matter in woodblock prints reflects the rich cultural life of Vietnam. They include a wide repertoire of images and stories, including depictions of auspicious festive activities, protective door guardians, local deified heroes, episodes from popular legends and many more. This print depicts the Trung sisters, 1st century women leaders who fought the Chinese invaders for three years, and are regarded as national heroines of Vietnam.
