Ceramics is one of Vietnam’s ancient traditional crafts, and it has also been widely developed throughout the world. The history of Vietnamese ceramics dates back thousands of years ago with simple handmade products, which then went through many stages of development and improvement to become one of the country’s most developed industries. Globally, ceramics also have a long and diverse history, ranging from traditional Asian products to modern Western designs. Let’s join CeramicsVietNam in exploring this journey!
The history of Vietnamese Ceramics
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
Throughout various stages, the history of Vietnamese ceramics has developed and notably gained prominence since the Tran – Le period with high-quality ceramic products used in the royal court. Subsequently, during the early Qing Dynasty, Vietnamese ceramics continued to thrive and were exported to countries in Asia, Europe, and America. Today, Vietnamese ceramics are still being produced and developed with diverse styles and unique designs, catering to the demands of both domestic and international markets.
Development from Lac Viet period to present
In Vietnam, the history of coarse pottery dates back approximately 6000 years. From the time of the Hung Kings, we have renowned pottery villages such as Phung Nguyen pottery and Go Mun pottery (Vinh Phu, now part of Phu Tho).
Below are some interesting facts about the history of Vietnamese ceramics that you may find intriguing:
The Lac Viet Period (2797 BC to 258 BC) is considered the earliest period of Vietnamese ceramic history. Ceramic products from this period are often found in areas such as Bac Ninh, Hai Duong, and Hung Yen.
The Tran Dynasty (1225-1400) marked a significant period of development for Vietnamese ceramics. Ceramic products from this period are often adorned with motifs such as lotus flowers, dragons, and bamboo.
The Le Dynasty (1428-1788) and especially the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) saw strong development in Vietnamese ceramics. Ceramic products from this period are often made from white clay and decorated with patterns, images, and writing.
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
Today, Vietnamese ceramics are still highly regarded for their quality and creativity. Modern ceramic products are often crafted by combining traditional methods with modern technology to create beautiful and high-quality works.
Prominent products of Vietnamese Ceramics
The history of Vietnamese ceramics records numerous landmarks in the enduring development of particularly ancient and longstanding traditional craft villages. Let’s highlight some outstanding products that not only shine domestically but also resonate in the international market.
- Bat Trang Ceramic Collection: Bat Trang is one of the most famous ceramic villages in Vietnam with over 500 years of production history. Bat Trang ceramic products are handcrafted with a variety of styles and colors, ranging from tableware to decorative items.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village is one of the most renowned ceramic villages in Vietnam, located in Gia Lam District, Hanoi. With a history dating back over 500 years, Bat Trang has been a cradle of traditional ceramic craftsmanship and artistry.
- Premium Ceramics by Minh Long: Minh Long is one of the leading premium ceramic brands in Vietnam, with products crafted by skilled artisans. Minh Long products are highly praised for their quality and elegant design.
- Chu Dau Ceramics: Chu Dau is one of the oldest ceramic production centers in Vietnam, with over 700 years of production history. Chu Dau ceramic products are handcrafted with thin, lightweight characteristics and a glossy finish, ranging from tableware to decorative items.
- Binh Duong Lacquer-coated Ceramics: Binh Duong lacquer-coated ceramics is a unique ceramic crafting technique in Vietnam, with a process that coats the product with a bright and glossy layer of lacquer. Binh Duong lacquer-coated ceramic products are widely used in interior decoration and gifts.
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
Traditional ceramic production techniques in Vietnam
The traditional ceramic production techniques in Vietnam hold significant importance and influence on the country’s culture and economy. Vietnamese ceramic products have distinct characteristics in terms of materials, shapes, and patterns, creating uniqueness and sophistication. From ancient to modern Vietnamese ceramic history, production techniques have been preserved and developed, contributing to the preservation and promotion of valuable cultural heritage.
Below are some traditional ceramic production techniques in Vietnam:
- Carving Technique: Used to create images and patterns on the surface of ceramics. Carving is done by hand or using small tools to create precise details on the ceramic surface.
- Firing Technique: After shaping and decorating the ceramic products, the firing process is crucial to make the products durable and sturdy. The traditional firing technique in Vietnam is carried out using charcoal or wood-fired kilns.
- Glazing Technique: The glazing technique helps protect the surface of ceramics from erosion and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the products. This technique requires high skill to mix and evenly apply glaze on the ceramic surface.
World ceramic history
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
Alongside the history of Vietnamese ceramics, the world ceramic history also has pivotal moments marking the peak of ceramic craftsmanship. One of the largest and most developed ceramic industrial countries in the world is undoubtedly China. From China, the art of ceramic production spread across Asia and Europe, and today, ceramic products from countries like Japan, South Korea, Italy, France, and England are cherished and favored worldwide.
The history of world ceramics begins from the ancient Stone Age when people started using pottery for their daily needs. During the Bronze Age, ceramic production technology advanced, and ceramic products became an indispensable part of human life.
Development from ancient times to modern
From ancient times, ceramics were born to serve human needs and beliefs, evolving to modern times with various styles and designs.
During the Middle Ages, European ceramics reached its pinnacle of development with the emergence of high-quality ceramics such as Sèvres and Meissen.
In the 20th century, ceramics became a contemporary art form, with the emergence of renowned ceramic artists like Lucie Rie and Bernard Leach. Today, ceramics remain an important industry and are widely used in fields such as interior decoration, decoration, and construction materials.
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
Prominent ceramic production centers worldwide
There are many famous ceramic production centers worldwide, and here are a few of them:
- Jingdezhen, China: Known as the “ceramic capital of China,” Jingdezhen has been producing ceramics since the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Today, it remains one of the largest and most famous ceramic production centers in the world.
- Stoke-on-Trent, England: With over 300 years of ceramic production history, Stoke-on-Trent is one of the oldest ceramic production centers in the world. It is also the home of famous ceramic brands such as Wedgwood, Spode, and Royal Doulton.
The history of Vietnamese and world Ceramics From early days to present
- Limoges, France: With over 200 years of history producing high-quality ceramics, Limoges is one of the most famous ceramic production centers in Europe. It is known for its handmade premium ceramic products used on special occasions.
- Delft, Netherlands: Delft is a renowned ceramic production center since the 17th century. Delft ceramics are characterized by their distinctive blue and white color tone and are handcrafted.
Popular ceramic products worldwide
Many countries have developed their own styles and ceramic production techniques, creating unique and beautiful products. Here are representatives of three regions with thriving ceramic industries worldwide:
- Japanese Ceramics: Renowned for excellent quality, durability, and unique aesthetics. Japanese ceramic products often feature exquisite patterns and are created using traditional techniques such as Raku, Hagi, and Karatsu.
- Chinese Ceramics: With a ceramic production history of over 5,000 years, Chinese ceramics are known for the sophistication and uniqueness of their products. Among them, Jingdezhen ceramics are one of the most famous styles of Chinese ceramics.
- European Ceramics: Famous for high-quality ceramic products and a variety of colors and styles. Countries like France, Germany, England, and Italy all have their distinctive and characteristic ceramic production styles.
Finally, after an exciting journey, we have learned about the history of Vietnamese ceramics and the art of ceramics worldwide in general, and Vietnam in particular. The bowls, plates, dishes, bowls, and other ceramic products have passed on to us a part of the past, a great cultural heritage of humanity. Let’s cherish it and preserve it for future generations
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