Thursday, 29/01/2026 16:05 (GMT+7)
A closer look at a unique collection of ceramic horses for Tet
Welcoming the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026, a ceramic workshop in Lai Thieu Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, has unveiled a new collection of zodiac figurines titled Ngọ Nam (Southern Horse), inspired by the image of the horse symbolising the open-spirited, resilient and vibrant character of southern Vietnam.
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| Located about 20 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, the Tet pottery exhibition space in Lai Thieu Ward has become a popular tourist attraction for its artistic displays. The space is dominated by red and gold tones that symbolise luck and prosperity in Vietnamese culture during the Lunar New Year. |
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| Many visitors are currently flocking to the workshop to admire the special collection of zodiac figurines illustrating the Year of the Horse. |
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| Thousands of horse-shaped ceramic works meticulously crafted by artisans have left much impression on visitors. |
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| According to artisan Khang Minh, the collection tells the story of growth through three main kinds of products, namely Ngựa Thơ, Ngựa Ca and Ngựa Vũ. |
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| Each design carries a message about life and people. |
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| Khanh Minh shares that the word "Nam" in the " Ngọ Nam" collection means the southern region of Vietnam which is a land of alluvial soil and traditional crafts passed down through generations. |
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| Ngựa Thơ (Poetic-inspired Horse) products impress viewers with round shapes resembling eggs, and symbolising the beginning stage. The artwork possesses a naive and pure beauty, sending a wish for a peaceful and fulfilling start, making it a suitable gift for families awaiting a new member. |
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| Ngựa Ca (Song-inspired Horse) products show the vitality of adulthood which is embodied in constant growth and movement. They convey the hope for steady progress in the future. |
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| Ngựa Vũ (Dance-inspired Horse) recreates the image of a horse at its most vigorous stage. With its lively, humorous, and energetic design, Ngựa Vũ conveys an optimistic spirit and powerful breakthroughs. |
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| Other products including border guard horses or horses featuring the national flag are all handcrafted, creating unique items and providing multiple choices among customers in this year's Tet gift market. |
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| Photographed is an artwork modeled after the horse statues displayed in the main halls of temples and pagodas. |
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| The artisan must constantly monitor the kiln temperature for 24 hours to create such high-end products.
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| This meticulous craftsmanship makes each horse a unique creation, leaving much impression on customers nationwide. |
VOV