Huy Pottery Workshop

A legacy of artistry, born from fire and earth.

“The Essence Of Earth, Born From Fire. Every Ceramic Piece, From A Humble Lump Of Clay, Is Transformed Into A Work Of Art. It Can Be As Precious As Gold, But More Importantly, It Embodies The Pride Of A Nation: Vietnamese Earth, Bát Tràng Ceramics.”

– This saying has been passed down through three generations of artisans at Huy Pottery Workshop.

Bát Tràng: A Village Steeped in Tradition

Founded in 1999, Huy Pottery Workshop carries a legacy of handcrafted excellence, shaped by generations of skilled artisans. The workshop stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Bát Tràng, a village renowned for its rich history and exquisite ceramics.

Meet Duc, The Artisan

Duc, a third-generation potter, embodies the soul of Huy Pottery. Born and raised in Bát Tràng, he was practically raised amidst the rhythmic hum of the potter's wheel. From a young age, he was captivated by the intricate details and delicate beauty of each ceramic piece, spending countless hours observing his elders transforming clay into art.

But Duc's path wasn't always clear. He initially pursued a different career path, seeking opportunities beyond the traditional craft. However, the pull of his heritage proved too strong. He realized that his true passion lay in continuing the legacy of his family and contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Bát Tràng.

He returned to the workshop, embracing both the traditional techniques passed down through generations and the possibilities of modern innovation. Today, Duc's passion lies in creating miniature figurines that capture the essence of Vietnamese culture and tradition. He believes that crafting beautiful ceramics requires four elements: passion, creativity, experience, and skill. With each piece, he strives to blend these elements harmoniously, reflecting his love for his craft and his homeland.

"As a young artisan, I am committed to preserving and evolving the legacy of Bát Tràng ceramics,” Duc shares. “Through innovation and dedication, I aim to contribute to the growth of this ancient craft and the prosperity of my hometown.”

The Heart Of Huy Pottery: A Team Of Skilled Artisans

Huy Pottery Workshop is home to a team of 14 skilled artisans, each playing a vital role in bringing these miniature masterpieces to life. The workshop is known for its unique approach, fostering a culture of multi-skilled artisans. Every craftsman is trained in all aspects of the production process, from preparing the clay to shaping, glazing, and firing the finished product. This approach not only ensures exceptional quality control but also cultivates a sense of pride and ownership among the team.

The women of Huy Pottery play a crucial role in the creation process. Their deft hands meticulously refine each detail, ensuring the final product is both aesthetically pleasing and infused with soul. Their skillful application of glazes and paints brings life and vibrancy to each ceramic creation, resulting in the exquisite figurines you find at The Viet Potter.

From Earth to Art: The Journey of Hoang Tho Clay

Huy Pottery Workshop is renowned for its use of Hoang Tho clay, a unique and precious resource found in Bát Tràng. Formed over millions of years through geological and biological processes, this golden clay is imbued with positive energy and rich minerals. It is this very clay that gives the figurines you'll find at The Viet Potter their unique, earthy charm.

The Secret of Hoang Tho Clay:

  • Unique Hues: The natural iron oxide content gives Hoang Tho clay its distinctive colors, ranging from warm yellows and rich reds to earthy browns. These natural pigments, once reserved for Vietnamese royalty, create a sense of elegance and sophistication.
  • Exceptional Durability: Fired at temperatures exceeding 1200°C, Hoang Tho ceramics are incredibly durable and resistant to fading, cracking, and water damage.
  • Eco-Friendly Choice: Sourced sustainably and free from harmful additives, Hoang Tho clay embodies our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Crafting Excellence: A Nine-Step Journey

The creation of each miniature ceramic figurine at Huy Pottery Workshop is a meticulous nine-step process, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the artisans:

  1. Inspiration: The journey begins with an idea, drawing inspiration from Vietnamese culture, nature, and everyday life.
  2. Sculpting the Model: A skilled artisan meticulously sculpts a detailed model, capturing the essence of the design.
  3. Mold Creation: A plaster mold is carefully crafted from the original model, ensuring consistency and precision in each piece.
  4. Preparing the Clay: Hoang Tho clay is transformed into a smooth, liquid slip, blending water and traditional Bát Tràng additives.
  5. Casting: The slip is poured into the mold and allowed to dry, resulting in a raw, unfired piece.
  6. Refining the Details: Skilled artisans meticulously refine the details, ensuring each piece is a unique work of art.
  7. Assembly: For complex designs, individual pieces are carefully assembled, forming the final figurine.
  8. Drying: The assembled pieces are meticulously dried, either naturally or in a controlled environment.
  9. Glazing and Firing: The dried pieces are expertly glazed and fired in modern gas kilns at temperatures reaching 1360°C, ensuring durability and a vibrant finish.

A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Huy Pottery Workshop is committed to preserving the environment while crafting beautiful ceramics. We have embraced modern technology to minimize our environmental footprint:

  • Modern Gas Kilns: Replacing traditional wood-fired kilns, our gas kilns significantly reduce emissions and increase production efficiency.
  • Wastewater Treatment: Our dedicated wastewater treatment system ensures that all wastewater meets Vietnamese environmental regulations before being released.
  • Sustainable Clay Sourcing: We are committed to the sustainable sourcing of Hoang Tho clay, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Supporting the Community, Empowering the Future

Huy Pottery Workshop is dedicated to giving back to the Bát Tràng community and nurturing the next generation of artisans:

  • Local Employment: We prioritize employing local artisans, providing valuable income and opportunities for the Bát Tràng community.
  • Educational Partnerships: We collaborate with art universities in Hanoi, offering students access to our kilns for firing their creations and fostering their passion for ceramics.

Discover the Beauty of Huy Pottery Collection