This enchanting village, located just outside of Hanoi, is renowned for its traditional lacquerware that showcases the skill and creativity of its artisans.
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Vietnam, Ha Thai Lacquer Craft Village is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship.
A Glimpse into History
No one in Ha Thai remembers when the lacquer craft began. According to sources of published documents, the Ha Thai people adopted lacquer craft from Binh Vong - the original land of lacquer craft. When lacquer craft was first introduced, it was simply gilding or painting wood. Before becoming a lacquer craft village, Ha Thai was a "multi-craft" village. People carried out all crafts for survival, along with farming.
Over time, Ha Thai emerged as a hub of skilled craftsmen who mastered intricate techniques and passed them down through generations. The Village was so famous and trustworthy that they were chosen to paint and gild luxury items for monarchs and royalty back in the day.
An Indochina School of Fine Arts lecturer and Ha Thai villager, Master Dinh Van Thanh introduced lacquer crafts to the Ha Thai people. This marked a significant change in the tradition of painting, turning normal wood painting into a stunning art form with meticulousness and refinement in the process of creating unique artworks.
The Art of Lacquerware
Explore how lacquerware is made, where skilled artisans turn humble materials into exquisite works of art. It is usually done in the following 3 main stages:
1. Preparing the wooden base
To prepare the wooden base craftsmen use stone powder mixed with paint to seal the cracks of the wood. Each layer of paint is lined with a layer of paper or fabric. Next, let the wood dry completely before painting the whole front and back.
This stage is to protect the panels from water absorption, not subject to termites, regardless of the environment that causes the wood to shrink. The more careful handling of the plate, the longer the life of the objects after being painted.
2. Decoration
After obtaining the above models of decorative figures or vases, the craftsmen will cover them with color and assemble the decorative material such as eggshells, gold leaf, pearl inlays, etc.
The work is more difficult when making big statues and furniture such as the altars, tables, beds, etc. The craftsmen have to work in a closed room and shield curtains around to prevent the wind from blowing the materials like gold leaf or prevent dust from sticking into wet paint.
3. Sanding and polishing
The product is meticulously sanded by hand to enhance the delicate beauty of the decorative patterns.
The more the product is shiny, the more its colour becomes deep and miraculous. Therefore, this final polishing step decides the quality of each lacquer piece.
Cultural Significance and Preservation.
Ha Thai Lacquer Craft Village holds immense cultural significance in Vietnam. Lacquerware pieces not only serve as functional objects but also as exquisite work of art that depict Vietnamese folklore, mythology, nature, and daily life.
Through the vibrant colors, elegant designs, and meticulous craftsmanship, lacquer craft embodies the Vietnamese spirit and reflects the country's rich cultural traditions. It's a symbol of national pride and its preservation and promotion contribute to the continuation of Vietnam's artistic legacy for generations to come.
Experiencing Ha Thai Lacquer Village and supporting the artisans
Visiting Ha Thai Lacquer Village is a captivating experience for art enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Exploring a lacquer workshop, one can witness the artisans at work, observe their intricate techniques, and engage in interactive demonstrations, where you can try your hand at lacquer painting under the guidance of a master craftsman.
A visit to Ha Thai presents an opportunity to support the local artisans and sustain their livelihoods. The village offers an array of lacquerware products, from traditional decorative and worshipping items such as lacquer painting, horizontal lacquered board or parallel sentences, altars to household products like bowls, plates, flower vases, trays, jewelry boxes, etc. All are beautifully crafted and available for purchase. By simply investing in these exquisite artworks, visitors have already contribute to the preservation of this ancient craft and helped ensure its continued existence.
Ha Thai Lacquer Craft Village is a captivating destination that seamlessly weaves history, artistry, and cultural immersion. Its skilled artisans continue to preserve the traditional craft of lacquerware, enchanting travelers with their mastery. Whether you are a lover of art, a cultural enthusiast, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Ha Thai Lacquer Craft Village is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of its beauty and craftsmanship.
