People's Artisan Tran Van Do introduces his Bat Trang pottery products.
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Born in Hanoi’s Bat Trang village in 1957, Tran Van Do has been involved in the craft since he was 10. He is the 18th generation of a family with a long tradition of making ceramics.
“I learned a lot about Bat Trang pottery from village elders. After talking to experts and studying many collections of pottery, I chose to focus on the glazing styles of the Ly and Tran dynasties,” Do said.
Do creates a variety of pottery products that have his distinctive style. He has also restored a number of ancient pottery pieces from the Dinh, Tran, and Ly dynasties. Many of his items have been given as diplomatic gifts. One notable item was a wine bottle that Vietnam’s Government Office gave as souvenirs to delegates who attended the 5th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM5) in Hanoi in 2003. Do also created a ceramic “Sword Lake Turtle” to mark 1,000 years of Thang Long-Hanoi.
“I focus on colors, patterns and shapes which embody the Vietnamese identity. I use my techniques and craft to turn clay into gold," Do said.
Tran Van Do’s pottery products have been exported to many countries. Pottery artisan Le Khanh Ly said: “Do’s products have the patterns and colors of brown Ly dynasty pottery. He has done a lot of research so his items have the soul of ancient pottery”.
Do has received a number of honorary titles, including People’s Artisan, and was recognized as one of Hanoi’s outstanding citizens.