Illustrations show how Vietnamese dressed in the 17th century. —Photo courtesy Nha Nam

HA NOI (VNS)– Illustrations from the book Ngan Nam Ao Mu (A Study of Costumes for 1,000 Years) will go on display today in Ha Noi.

They depict the attire worn by Vietnamese people from all levels of society.

The book, which was released in May, provides a detailed look at how Vietnamese people dressed in the past. Many experts describe it as the most comprehensive research ever undertaken on the subject.

However, due to print limitations, all the illustrations were kept small, said its author, Tran Quang Duc, a 28-year-old researcher from the Viet Nam Institute of Literature.

That's why he decided to open an exhibition of pictures from the book, plus old paintings he consulted and two costumes from the 16th century.

The exhibition will run until September 10 at Manzi Art Space, 14 Phan Huy Ich Street, Ha Noi.

Duc will give a talk at 3pm next Wednesday to exchange information with the public.

Ngan Nam Ao Mu, published by the Nha Nam Culture and Communication Company and The Gioi (World) Publishers, is sold at VND250,000 (US$12). – VNS