Storytelling Steles

Stories Told by Stone Stelae offers a closer look at the structure, form, and diverse decorative patterns and motifs found on the Doctoral Stelae at the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy, reflecting the evolution of Vietnamese artistic styles throughout different historical periods. Beyond their artistic value, each stele contains important information about the imperial examinations and successful doctoral laureates, including the year of the examination, year of the stele’s erection, names, hometowns, and other details about the laureates.

Stories Told by Stone Stelae also introduces the “Seven Honors Bestowed upon Newly Graduated Doctors” – the honors and privileges granted exclusively to those who successfully passed the examinations. Through these inscriptions, each stele is more than a stone artifact; it offers a glimpse into the art, examination system, and tradition of honoring and valuing talented individuals in Vietnam’s past.

Join us in discovering and deciphering the stories hidden within the Doctoral Stelae!