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Unglazed Hmong Pottery

The Hmong, an ethnic minority in Thailand, are known for their vibrant culture, arts and crafts. A very distinctive unglazed pottery is traditionally made by the Hmong people. The raw unglazed surface provides a tactile connection to the earthy origins of the pottery.

Hmong pottery is a type of traditional earthenware, often characterized by its rustic, unglazed finish. The pottery is made using traditional methods passed down through generations. It is typically fired at lower temperatures than glazed pottery, resulting in a porous material that can absorb liquids.

With its beautifully hand carved patterns, Hmong pottery differs in shape and design from other pottery. The designs are a combination of several carefully etched patterns inspired by nature, including lotus blossoms, leaves and ‘Kranok’, a triangular flame motif. These designs have not changed for centuries.

PROCESS

  • Local clay, often mixed with fine sand, is the primary material.
  • Buffaloes are often used to tread the clay, softening it to a workable consistency.
  • The pottery is either made on the potters wheel or by the process of coiling and throwing.
  • The pieces are then put aside to dry and decorations are intricately hand carved on the surface.
  • After initial drying, the surface is burnished, using a smooth stone to create the characteristic smooth, polished finish.
  • When completely dry, the pieces are fired in kilns at temperatures between 700 – 900 degrees Celcius for up to 7 days or more.
  • Firing in traditional brick kilns gives its characteristic orange-red colour. To provide a black finish, the clay is mixed with plant husks.
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