Tấm & Cám – Vietnamese Fairy Tale Art Print by Bao Quyen
This artwork is an original illustration by Bao Quyen, printed on VIA Felt White paper (270g) for a soft, refined texture that enhances storytelling details and gentle colour transitions.
Inspired by Tấm & Cám (Tấm Cám), one of the most well-known Vietnamese fairy tales, this illustration reimagines a story often compared to Cinderella, yet deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and symbolism.
The tale follows two half-sisters: Tấm, whose name means broken rice, and Cám, meaning rice bran. Kind and diligent, Tấm suffers under the cruelty of her stepmother and jealous sister. When tasked with catching tép (small shrimps), Tấm succeeds through hard work, only to have her basket stolen by Cám. Heartbroken, she is comforted by Buddha, who guides her to raise a magical goby fish. When the fish is killed, Buddha instructs Tấm to bury its bones—acts of faith that later transform into rewards.
As the king hosts a grand festival, Tấm is again tested when she is ordered to separate rice from bran before attending. With Buddha’s help, the buried bones reveal silk garments, a red yếm, a scarf, and a horse, allowing her to attend the festival. On her journey, she loses a slipper, which the king later discovers. Declaring he will marry the woman whose foot fits the slipper, he ultimately chooses Tấm, recognizing her virtue and grace.
This story symbolizes resilience, justice, kindness, and transformation, reflecting the belief that compassion and patience will ultimately be rewarded.
Perfect as cultural wall art, an educational piece, or a meaningful gift, this print brings Vietnamese folklore into contemporary visual storytelling.
Product Details
- Original illustration by Bao Quyen
- Printed on VIA Felt White paper
- Paper weight: 270g
- Theme: Vietnamese folklore, fairy tales, tradition, symbolism
