The Queen

Title

The Queen

Medium

Lacquer on canvas

Size

135 cm x 135 cm

Collection

Diplomatic Collection

Location

The Embassy of Vietnam in Washington, D.C, The United States of America

Rights & reproductions

© Bui Huu Hung Foundation

About the artwork

The Queen”—more than just a title, it serves as a gateway into a world of authority and cultural heritage. Bui Huu Hung’s portrayal is less a declaration than an invitation—an opening into the essence of queenship embodied by the central figure. The title does not merely name its subject; it sets the stage for a visual narrative that explores tradition, power, and perhaps the silent weight of responsibility. It is a quiet yet profound statement, offering a glimpse into the outward symbols of royalty but the inner world of a sovereign.

Building on the intrigue of its title, Bui Huu Hung employs a muted, almost ethereal palette to imbue the artwork with a sense of timelessness. The queen’s robe, rendered in faded gold, speaks not of ostentation but of a legacy burnished by history. This deliberate choice of colour creates a visual whisper, hinting at the weight of tradition and the understated power woven into her very existence. Framed by soft hues, her serene expression conveys an inner strength that transcends the need for outward grandeur, drawing viewers beyond the surface to reflect on the enduring qualities of leadership.

The patterns on her robe don’t clamour for attention; they settle quietly into the fabric like remnants of history gently woven into her presence. Their intricate details hint at traditions that may no longer be named but are still deeply felt. More than mere decoration, they carry a quiet sense of history—something passed down, not spoken aloud, but understood.

Bui Huu Hung’s brushwork breathes life into these details, where light lingers and shadows deepen, creating an ebb and flow that gives the figure a quiet, mesmerising depth. His artistry shines in these seemingly unspoken elements—subtle yet commanding, inviting viewers not just to see but to feel the grace and quiet strength of the Queen’s world.