Shopping for reproductions in Ho Chi Minh City

Not only are there dozens of unique and original keepsakes you can take home with you from Saigon, but the city is also known for its brilliant reproductions of master artworks.

Vietnam has a rich artistic heritage and today’s visitors are taking advantage of local artists’ skills by picking up artworks at a snip. Saigon’s growing cottage industry has seen copies of Picassos, Monets, Hoppers, Rembrants and other great masters being sold all through the city’s main shopping district.

Of course, not all these reproductions are worthy of purchase, but the attractive prices may encourage you to settle for a few minor imperfections. Yet the value for money for the skill level is excellent and shops here regularly get large orders from across the world.

It’s not just copies on offer. Made-to-order works are available as well as original artworks. In fact, the artists here can pretty much paint anything you ask them to. You can buy pictures with or without frames, rolled or stretched. Carry your purchases home yourself or have the gallery arrange for them to be sent.

Even if you are not interested in making a purchase, an afternoon spent strolling the alleyways and admiring the artists at work can be interesting.

Expect to pick up a copy of a masterpiece from just US$50, with large pieces going for up to US$350.