With a history dating back approximately 700 years, Phu Lang Pottery Village stands as the most renowned ceramic village in the Kinh Bac region. Its products have earned widespread acclaim across the country for their durability and exquisite craftsmanship, showcasing unparalleled intricacy in every detail.
Overview about Phu Lang Pottery Village
Address: Phu Lang Commune, Que Vo Town, Bac Ninh Province
Known for more than its melodious Quan ho songs, Bac Ninh is home to the unique craft village of Phu Lang in Que Vo district. Phu Lang Pottery Village, situated along the Cau River, boasts a history dating back 700 years, with ferry crossings facilitating trade and transportation for visitors. The place name “Phu Lang” has been present since the late Tran Dynasty and early Le Dynasty. Legend has it that during that time, Phu Lang comprised three hamlets: Trung Thon, Thuong Thon, and Ha Thon, all renowned for their traditional pottery craftsmanship. In 2016, this artisan village was officially recognized as a National Cultural Heritage.
At present, the centuries-old kilns in Phu Lang are continuously ablaze, catering to the demand for traditional pottery items such as chum (ceremonial incense burners), vại (ceramic containers), and decorative vessels, especially during the heightened demand leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year). The majority of Phu Lang’s products are supplied to farms cultivating kumquats, oranges, and tangerines, serving the needs of people during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Compared to other traditional pottery styles, Phu Lang pottery exhibits a distinct and rustic charm, easily recognizable by its earthy tones of brown, dark brown, light yellow, deep yellow, and dark red glazes. The owner of Khương Nam pottery production facility revealed that, unlike Bát Tràng pottery using white clay combined with crackle and pearl glazes, Phu Lang pottery employs red clay, paired with the rustic hues of snake-skin glaze. The hallmark of Phu Lang pottery lies in its prominent embossing and sculpting techniques, utilizing natural, durable glazes. The entire pottery-making process in Phu Lang is manual, with wood-fired kilns. Craftsmen use potter’s wheels to shape the raw products, followed by the application of intricate decorative details or direct sculpting onto the ceramic items.
Renowned artist Mỹ Hoa, with 50 years of pottery experience, emphasized the challenges of embossing and sculpting techniques. This stage requires skilled artisans with craftsmanship and rich imagination. The glaze used in Phu Lang pottery typically comprises natural earth glazes, combined with ash from the forest, river mud, and ground wood ash. Additionally, some products may involve the use of chemical colors.
Tourists exploring Bac Ninh will easily encounter the captivating sight of Phu Lang’s ceramic products lining the village lanes and alleys. With various shapes, sizes, and colors, these pottery items, including common utensils like mortars and pestles, showcase the village’s rich heritage. Additionally, Phu Lang pottery features decorative pieces for both interior and exterior use, such as house gates. The distinctive characteristic of Phu Lang pottery lies in its glazed finish, displaying shades of brown, dark brown, light yellow, and pale yellow. According to seasoned craftsmen, this glaze is reminiscent of the skin of an eel.
Overview about Phu Lang Pottery Village
Visiting Phu Lang is not just a journey through time; it’s an immersion into the artistic legacy of Bac Ninh. The recognition of Phu Lang Pottery Village as a National Cultural Heritage is a testament to its enduring contribution to Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.
In conclusion, Phu Lang Pottery Village has a rich history and distinctive characteristics, with its traditional craftsmanship and unique aesthetic qualities contributing to its status as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. The village remains a hub of traditional pottery production, preserving the cultural heritage for generations to come.
Guidelines for traveling to Phu Lang Village
For visitors coming from southern provinces or Ho Chi Minh City, the most convenient way to reach Phu Lang Village is by taking a flight to Hanoi. From Hanoi, there are two recommended transportation options: motorbike travel or purchasing a bus ticket to Bac Ninh.
If you’re departing from the capital city, ceramicsvietnam.com suggests the following route: Travel along National Highway 5, then switch to the new 1A route. As you approach the overpass roundabout in Bac Ninh, take a right towards Pha Lai, and continue on a small village road passing through Chau Cau market for approximately 5-10 minutes. Look for the milestone indicating “Pha Lai – 6km” and shortly after, take a right onto a small village road that passes Chau Cau market. In just 5-10 minutes, you’ll arrive at Phu Lang Pottery Village.
Another option for tourists is to take bus number 54 from Long Bien to Bac Ninh city. From there, continue by boarding the “Bac Ninh – Sao Do” bus, which will take you directly to Phu Lang Pottery Village.
These transportation tips ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for those eager to explore the cultural richness of Phu Lang Village.
History of Phu Lang Pottery Village
Phu Lang Pottery Village, nestled along the banks of the Cau River with its numerous ferry crossings, holds a rich history dating back to the late Tran Dynasty and early Le Dynasty. During this period, Phu Lang comprised three hamlets: Trung Thon, Thuong Thon, and Ha Thon, each known for its traditional pottery craftsmanship.
According to the Kinh Bac-Ha Bac book, the founding figure of Phu Lang Pottery Village is recognized as Luu Phong Tu. Legend has it that when Luu Phong Tu was sent by the court to China as an envoy, he acquired the art of pottery making. Upon his return, he generously shared his newfound knowledge with the people of his homeland. The first recipients of this craft were the residents along the banks of the Luc Dau River. Subsequently, the artistry spread to the Vien Kiep region in Hai Duong, and by the early 13th century (during the Tran Dynasty), it reached Phu Lang Trung.
The craft of Phu Lang pottery began to take shape and flourish around the 14th century, during the Tran Dynasty. A visit to the Vietnam History Museum provides an opportunity to marvel at some of the village’s historic creations, showcased with origins dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries. These artifacts, primarily brown-glazed ceramics, exhibit various shades resembling the skin of an eel, including brown, dark brown, and yellow.
History of Phu Lang Pottery Village
The craftsmanship of Phu Lang Pottery Village has left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Vietnam, with its origins deeply rooted in the skills imparted by Luu Phong Tu. The timeless beauty of Phu Lang pottery continues to captivate visitors, showcasing the village’s enduring commitment to its rich artistic tradition.
Varieties of ceramic products in Phu Lang Pottery Village
Phu Lang Pottery Village is renowned for its diverse range of ceramic products, with a focus on three main categories:
Ceramics for rituals and beliefs
- Incense Burners: Exquisite ceramic incense burners are crafted for spiritual rituals, adding a touch of artistry to religious practices.
- Altar Tops: Altar tops are intricately designed ceramic pieces, serving as a prominent feature in religious settings.
- Altars: Elaborate ceramic altars are created, providing a sacred space for worship and prayer.
Household ceramic items
- Mortars: Sturdy ceramic mortars are a common household item, essential for grinding and preparing various ingredients.
- Jars: Ceramic jars, both functional and decorative, are crafted for storage and display.
- Vases: Elegant ceramic vases showcase the village’s artistry and are popular for both utilitarian and ornamental purposes.
- Bowls: Bowls of different shapes and sizes, suitable for various culinary uses, are skillfully crafted.
Decorative ceramic art
- Animal-shaped Teapots: Phu Lang Pottery Village produces charming teapots in the form of animals, showcasing creativity and artistic flair.
- Ceramic Vase: Decorative ceramic vases, adorned with unique patterns, colors, and shapes, add aesthetic value to spaces.
The distinguishing feature of Phu Lang pottery lies in its use of the “men da lươn” glaze. This unique glaze, characterized by shades of brown, dark brown, and light yellow, gives the ceramics a distinctive appearance. Additionally, the village employs a technique called “đắp nổi” or embossing, using the “chạm bong” (double touch) method. This method involves applying natural-colored glazes, resulting in durable and visually appealing ceramic pieces.
The ceramic forms in Phu Lang are beloved for their raw and robust aesthetic, embodying the primitive language of earth and fire. Each piece carries a profound artistic expression, making Phu Lang Pottery Village a treasure trove of traditional craftsmanship.
The ceramics-making process in Phu Lang Village
Selecting and processing clay
The ceramics-making process in Phu Lang Village
In contrast to other ceramic products that use clay from different regions, such as the green clay of Tho Ha or the white clay of Bat Trang, Phu Lang Pottery Village utilizes a distinctive red clay sourced from Thong Vat and Cung Khiem in Bac Giang province. This clay is transported via water routes along the Cau River to reach Phu Lang Village. Skilled artisans prefer a specific type of clay with a certain level of flexibility for crafting exquisite ceramic items.
Once the clay arrives, artisans follow a meticulous process. The clay is spread out to allow it to weather, acquiring a silver-gray color. It is then mixed with layers of clay and pounded into small pieces using the feet. Subsequently, the clay is taken for wedging, kneading, sieving, breaking, and rolling until it reaches a smooth consistency. This process involves estimating and ensuring that the clay is wedged at least 10 times before it is ready to be placed on the pottery wheel for shaping into the final product.
The careful selection and processing of clay are integral to the unique qualities of Phu Lang ceramics, contributing to the village’s reputation for producing exceptional and culturally rich pottery.
Shaping the form of Phu Lang Ceramics
To shape Phu Lang ceramics on the potter’s wheel, artisans employ techniques like “hand stroking” and “pinching.” Seated on elevated chairs above the wheel, they use their foot to rotate the wheel and their hands to mold the clay. The clay is first wedged to achieve a smooth consistency before being placed on the wheel. Once on the wheel, the clay is patted down to adhere securely, then compressed and pulled to make the clay pliable for shaping the final product.
Casting molds is a widely used technique, particularly for mass production. The process involves placing a mold onto the wheel, securing it tightly, then forcefully pressing the clay into the mold’s cavity. The artisan lifts the clay, turns the wheel, and pulls a tool to the desired thickness, shaping the product. This casting technique varies in complexity depending on the characteristics of the intended product, with some being more intricate while others follow a simpler design.
The art of shaping Phu Lang ceramics is a dynamic blend of traditional handcrafting and modern casting methods. Each technique contributes to the unique characteristics of the pottery, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of Phu Lang artisans.
Drying and refining processes
The dried ceramics undergo a meticulous drying process to ensure they remain crack-free and retain their original shape. The prevalent method for drying is to use a kiln, gradually increasing the temperature to facilitate the evaporation of water. This controlled drying process is crucial to prevent the formation of cracks and deformities in the ceramics, preserving their integrity.
Skilled artisans take on the role of cutters and carvers, attaching components such as spouts or handles, trimming excess material, and refining the decorative patterns. This stage involves precise adjustments to achieve the highest level of perfection in the product. Artisans may carve intricate patterns, trim and shape the ceramics, or enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. This meticulous craftsmanship contributes to the final touches, ensuring that each piece meets the desired standard of excellence.
The combination of careful drying and skilled refinement in Phu Lang pottery production underscores the commitment to producing high-quality, flawless ceramics that showcase both traditional techniques and a dedication to craftsmanship.
Loading and firing the kiln in Phu Lang Pottery Village
The ceramics-making process in Phu Lang Village
Once the raw ceramic products have been meticulously shaped, they undergo the crucial step of loading into the kiln, adhering to a carefully planned arrangement to maximize the use of space inside. This strategic loading not only conserves fuel but also ensures optimal heat efficiency within the kiln. The meticulous placement of ceramics inside the kiln is essential to achieve uniform firing and maintain the quality of the finished products.
The firing process in Phu Lang Pottery Village demands advanced technical expertise, especially during key stages such as heating the kiln and inspecting the products. This intricate task is typically assigned to skilled technicians and kiln operators at the lower door, along with four individuals specialized in feeding wood through the upper vent. After the completion of the firing, all openings, including the vent, kiln door, and peephole, are securely sealed to allow the kiln to cool gradually. The firing process in Phu Lang pottery often spans 2 days and 2 nights. After opening the kiln, an additional day and night are typically allowed for the cooling process before the products are taken out.
The combination of precise loading and meticulous firing techniques contributes to the distinct qualities of Phu Lang ceramics, highlighting the dedication to craftsmanship and adherence to traditional methods in the production of these exquisite pottery items.
It can be observed that creating a complete product in Phu Lang Pottery Village takes approximately 3 days and 3 nights, underscoring the significant manual craftsmanship invested in each piece. The final products, therefore, carry substantial artisanal value.
Phu Lang Pottery Village’s evolution and adaptation
Similar to many other traditional pottery villages, Phu Lang pottery faced a period of decline, forcing numerous households to abandon the craft. The turbulence in the market compelled Phu Lang potters to seek new directions for the survival and development of their ancient, 700-year-old trade. In contrast to the traditional production of small ceramics, primarily tiểu sành, predominant in Phu Lang, a transformation began in the late 1990s. The locals initiated changes in designs to align with the increasingly diverse market demands.
A pioneering figure in this transformation is Vu Huu Nhung, representing the new generation of educated individuals in Phu Lang. Since 2000, Nhung has been establishing the Nhung Pottery brand, introducing a distinct line of artistic pottery or alternatively known as interior decor ceramics. Nhung innovatively incorporates various patterns, breathing life into ceramic products, featuring elements such as banyan trees, riverbanks, banana leaves, sweet potato leaves, lotus flowers, rural landscapes, and more.
Inspired by Nhung’s success, other villagers also transitioned towards new product lines. Today, Phu Lang villagers engage in three main product categories: Ceramics for religious practices, household ceramics, and decorative ceramics (tiles, paintings, reliefs, miniature landscapes, etc.). Ms. Hoa, owner of the Duc Thinh Pottery workshop, mentions, “In addition to mass-produced items, we also create unique products to serve customers with specific demands, such as feng shui screens, vase arrangements, lucky wish paintings, and feng shui paintings.”
Phu Lang Pottery Village’s evolution and adaptation
To promote Phu Lang pottery, since 2019, Ms. Hoa has organized experiential activities combined with guided tours for student groups, attracting a substantial number of participants, sometimes reaching up to 1,000 students per day. Unfortunately, this initiative had to be temporarily suspended since the beginning of 2020 due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Expanding on the aspiration for Phu Lang Pottery to soar beyond
According to Ms. Hoa, the vibrancy of Phu Lang Pottery Village is limited to the period from August to Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year). This timeframe aligns with the demand from ornamental plant nurseries for pots, vases, and containers used in the sale of Lunar New Year plants. Notably, the market for Phu Lang pottery predominantly relies on the needs of these plant nurseries, and the local artisans are not proactively engaging with other markets.
Mr. Nam, the owner of a major pottery production facility in Phu Lang, emphasizes that they don’t advertise, promote, or even need signboards because their established clientele naturally seeks them out. This sentiment is echoed by many locals in Phu Lang, maintaining a traditional mindset that retaining existing connections is sufficient without putting a strong emphasis on marketing their products. Mr. Nam shares that they produce approximately 2,000 items per month, serving primarily ornamental plant nurseries. If these nurseries face a downturn and don’t purchase their products, the pottery industry in Phu Lang could face significant challenges.
The weakest link in Phu Lang pottery lies in the areas of marketing and product promotion. The community primarily produces common items, essentially “supermarket products,” lacking a focus on innovation, creative design, or high-quality products. Additionally, Phu Lang has yet to organize a pottery market to introduce and sell products to tourists, lacking the connection between tourist routes and linking customers with producers. This situation has caused Phu Lang pottery to remain stagnant, unable to expand its reach like the pottery from Bat Trang or the Cham people.
Ms. Hoa reveals that there is no association or exhibition area for pottery in Phu Lang, and there is no pottery market. This absence limits the opportunities for pottery products to be showcased. Despite positive feedback from foreign visitors, there is still uncertainty about how Phu Lang pottery can reach international markets. Ms. Hoa expresses a desire for the establishment of an association and a platform to introduce their products, hoping that, at the very least, more people within the country will become aware of Phu Lang pottery. This aspiration, she believes, is achievable with determination from both local authorities and the villagers.
We hope that ceramicsvietnam.com has provided you with valuable insights into a craft village with a history spanning over 700 years, producing renowned products that resonate both domestically and internationally.
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