People's Artisan Tran Van Do introduces his Bat Trang pottery products.

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.