Tran Anh Tu represents the young generation of artisans in the ancient pottery village of Bat Trang. Passionate about ancient culture, over the years, he has diligently created many unique works. This year, on the occasion of the Lunar New Year, Tu launched dragon-themed ceramic products.

Tu said that to design dragon-themed products for the new year, he actively researched and learned from ancient bibliographies, as well as field surveys at many communal houses and temples throughout the country.

For example, the model of the Long Ma (a legendary creature which is half horse and half dragon) was modelled by Tu from the image of the Long Ma at the Imperial Citadel and the mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty kings in Hue.

It takes 6-7 hours for the clay in the mould to dry and form a rough product. At this time, the product is still quite soft and must be dried for several hours.

With skilful hands, artisans will continue to perfect and attach separate details to the body of the Long Ma. This is a step that requires experience and talent from the worker.

After being moulded, the samples wait until it’s time to colour.

Dragon image products after being removed from the mould.

In the next step, after reaching standard dryness, the sample will be coated with colour.

The enamel layer has been carefully researched and mixed in advance to ensure that the product will produce the colour desired by the artist after firing.

Young artisan Tran Anh Tu with his products.

Two dragon products produced by Tan Thinh Ceramic Production and Trading Cooperative. It is known that these two products are not currently widely sold but are only produced as gifts for the upcoming Lunar New Year.

Dragon image products by young artist Tran Anh Tu.