Urban memories from the old glaze

In the flow of Vietnamese cultural heritage, Saigon-Chợ Lớn ceramics once held a special place, closely linked to the formation and development of the southern city. The collection of multicolored glazed ceramic statues is a prime example.

The Tam Quan Dai De (pictured), part of the private collection of Mr. Le Thanh Nghia, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Antiquities Association, has just been recognized as a National Treasure by the Prime Minister . This marks the first time that ancient Saigon pottery from the Cay Mai kiln system has been recognized as a national heritage site.

Dating from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, this set of statues was crafted at the Buu Nguyen pottery kiln, one of the representative kilns of old Saigon pottery. One of the special features of the works is the multi-colored glaze. These elements demonstrate the high technical skill of Saigon pottery artisans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Beyond its technical and artistic value, the statues clearly reflect the cultural exchange in the spiritual life of the people of Southern Vietnam. The image of the Three Great Emperors, originally from Chinese Taoism, was strongly localized upon entering the religious life of the new land. Traditional Taoist sculptural standards were maintained, but the facial features and expressions of the figures took on a simpler, more approachable look, closer to the Vietnamese people.

According to experts, the Tam Quan Dai De statue set is quite rare in Vietnamese religious sculpture, which typically uses materials such as wood, clay, or stone. From handcrafted products connected to community life, old Saigon ceramics have become historical witnesses, reflecting the identity of the land – a place where many cultural streams converge and harmonize to form the unique appearance of Ho Chi Minh City today.

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Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/ky-uc-do-thi-tu-chat-men-xua-post841856.html