(VOVWORLD) - Dong Xam village in Thai Binh province has long been renowned for its silversmithing. War veteran Dinh Quang Thang has been training a new generation of young artisans.
 Artisan Dinh Quang Thang works on a silver piece. (Photo: Van Hai/VOV1) |
Thang is a celebrated craftsman with more than 30 years of experience in copper and silver engraving.
Each product he creates is totally handmade and highly praised for their quality and aesthetic value.
Born into a family with three generations of silversmiths, Thang grew up with the sound of hammering and chiseling and it didn’t take him long to become passionate about the craft.
“I studied both academic subjects and silver engraving techniques with the old artisans. I spent nearly three years learning the craft at a local cooperative,” said Thang.
After completing his military service, Thang returned to his home village in 1991 to find the silver engraving craft was fading. “I thought of building a trademark for silver carved products. I was determined to become a master in this craft in order to preserve its cultural values.”
For Thang, only a skilled artisan can create the soulful, delicate details of a traditional Dong Xam silver product. While many other local artisans abandoned the trade, he remained committed and continued creating unique, handcrafted pieces.
“I noticed that other households lacked creativity and only produced one kind of item. I created a variety of products in order to reach a broader market. My work can now be found throughout Vietnam,” Thang said.
 War veteran Dinh Quang Thang (fourth from right) takes a photo with his comrades-in-arms. (Photo: vanhoatv.com.vn) |
Thang’s skilled hands transform lifeless metal pieces into exquisite, soulful artworks.
After studying the craft with Thang for years, Nguyen Thi Phuong has mastered the techniques. During her apprenticeship, Phuong didn’t have to pay tuition—instead, she earned wages while working alongside Thang’s family to produce high-quality products. Phuong has now been engaged in silversmithing for ten years.
“At first, I didn’t plan to pursue this career, but after working with Thang, I began to love the craft. That’s why I’m still doing it. He’s passionate and dedicated about every piece. He creates special work that few others can replicate,” said Phuong.
Thang, now 70 years old, is passing on his dedication and experience to the younger villagers.
“I’ve always hoped to keep traditional silver carving alive by teaching it to the younger generation. I’m happy that many young people have been successful with this craft,” said Thang.