Lying on the banks of Red River, Kim Lan pottery village in Gia Lam district, Hanoi has a more than 1,000 year-history of making of ceramics.
The craft reached its peak around the 13th and 14th centuries, making the village a pottery production centre for the capital city of Thang Long (now Hanoi). During that time, most of the country’s ceramic products exported to Japan were made in the village.
However, the craft fell into oblivion in the 17th century before being revived in the last three decades.
According to statistics of the commune Peoples’ Committee, only 100 households in the village are doing the craft. Clay from the village is turned into beautiful and useful products under the hands of skilled artisans.
The wares come in various types, ranging from toothpick holders, candle holders, vases, wine pots, and tree pots.
Additionally, the villagers also produce pottery for the construction sector, such as roof tiles, decorative bricks, and handrails.
Without sophisticated decorative patterns, products made in the village win the hearts of customers thanks to their user-friendly features.
Villagers have taken steps to lift the prestige of Kim Lan pottery products while preserving and promoting the traditional craft.
The communal administration has zoned 4.9ha of land for ceramics manufacturing to further develop the craft.