On the first days of the new lunar – Year of the Rooster – thousands are flocking to Van Mieu Temple, the first university of Vietnam, to offer incense and ask calligraphers for ornate writings. |
Many people at the Temple say they like creative writings that show harmony and integrity made in a traditional style. |
The calligraphic writings they believe will ward off evil and bring good luck in the new year. |
The most sought-after writings are Happiness 福, Longevity 禄, Peace 安 and Love 爱. |
With the Year of the Rooster having arrived, many of the calligraphic writings focus on a chicken image. |
The handwritten symbols represent humanity, beauty and all aspects of a virtuous life, says one man. |
A calligrapher at work at the Temple. |
Calligrapher Tran Cat Le says her writings are inspired by ancient literature. |
