From the mossy yin-yang tiled roofs, from the ceramic lanterns that cast magical, shimmering lights and shadows to the funny figurines, the pots and pans that show off their shapes... All are products of Thanh Ha. The book Dai Nam Nhat Thong Chi - published by the National History Institute of the Nguyen Dynasty - also listed Thanh Ha pottery in the Quang Nam local products section. According to legend, some Thanh Ha artisans were invited to the Hue Royal Court to work.
Most of Thanh Ha pottery is produced by hand, the shaping is done by hand on a turntable, not covered with glaze. Thanh Ha pottery is smooth, durable, light, and when tapped it makes a very clear sound.
Some typical ceramic products of Thanh Ha village: jars, pots, basins, urns, mortars, teapots, kettles, urns, trays, om, roundabouts...
Terracotta material and production process
Thanh Ha pottery is not only famous for its unique clay but also for its sophisticated crafting techniques that have been passed down through many generations. The artisans here do not use pre-made molds but create the shapes entirely by hand and on a turntable, bringing soft, natural lines to the products.
After shaping, the pottery is dried and then fired in a wood kiln at high temperatures, causing the color to change with each level of fire, creating natural, rustic but extremely attractive shades. It is this heterogeneity that makes Thanh Ha pottery unique, each product is a unique work of art.
In particular, although not glazed, the ceramic still has a characteristic gloss, partly due to the firing technique and partly due to Thanh Ha clay which has high adhesion, when fired it creates a smooth surface as if covered with a layer of natural glaze. When tapped lightly, the ceramic sounds clear and long like the sound of a bell, proving the durability of the product.
Perhaps, it is the combination of soil, the talented hands of the craftsman and the breath of fire that creates the soul of Thanh Ha pottery - a traditional beauty, simple but full of vitality.