In the heart of Vietnam’s Red River Delta lies Thu Sy village, a place where time-honored traditions thrive amidst modern changes. Renowned for its exquisite bamboo weaving, the village is home to artisans dedicated to preserving the ancient craft of making bamboo fish pots.
Although these fish pots are no longer essential to commercial fishing, the craft has evolved into a celebrated local art form. The process begins with selecting the finest bamboo, which is carefully split and whittled into thin, even laths of varying sizes. With skilled hands, the craftspeople intricately weave these laths into the distinctive shape of fish pots, a practice passed down through generations.
Once woven, the fish pots are stacked on smokehouse shelves, where they are smoked to enhance their durability and impart a rich, earthy hue. This meticulous process not only preserves the physical integrity of the pots but also embodies the artisans’ deep respect for their heritage.
Thu Sy’s commitment to this traditional craft not only sustains the village’s economy but also attracts cultural enthusiasts and travelers eager to witness the artistry firsthand. As the world rapidly changes, the artisans of Thu Sy stand as a testament to the enduring value of cultural preservation and the beauty of handcrafted works.
