Vietnam is an artistic crossroads, a “place of intersections, exchanges, and layers.” There is a desire to stimulate interdisciplinary exchanges, "at the crossroads of the arts," concerning the arts of Vietnam, which remain largely unknown.

A significant part of Vietnam’s history is based on oral tradition and legends that place the founding of the kingdom by the Hồng Bàng dynasty in the 3rd millennium BCE.

Archaeological excavations have uncovered a rich funerary collection, including weapons and tools made of bronze or iron, dating from the 1st millennium BCE. These findings prove the existence of a developed and structured civilization long before the arrival of the Chinese in the country.

At the beginning of the Common Era, Vietnam became both a Chinese province and an important commercial crossroads between China, India, Arabia, and Mediterranean countries. The country was thus influenced by many cultures, which are reflected in its art, religion, and culture in general.

Vietnamese artisans adopted Chinese techniques in working with porcelain, wood carving, bas-reliefs, and statues. Chinese influence is also seen in the architecture of temples and pagodas.

Among the various unique aspects of Vietnamese art, silk painting and traditional water puppet theater (Múa rối nước) are particularly renowned.

Much later, in the mid-19th century, France seized the territories that formed French Indochina and brought with it Western culture. This colonization explains the subtle blend of East and West in contemporary Vietnamese works.

Before a sale of Vietnamese antiques at auction, it is important to have various objects or furniture appraised and evaluated by a professional specializing in Asian art. They will determine the provenance and age of the items based on the styles and materials used. This way, they can provide an estimate for lacquerware, bronze, or porcelain from Vietnam, ensuring the best price for buying or selling.