Hue's Young Artisan Revitalizes Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Craft

In the ancient city of Hue, Vietnam, 34-year-old artisan Phan Tấn Đạt is passionately dedicated to preserving and developing the traditional mother-of-pearl inlay craft (khảm ốc xà cừ). This craft, with a long history in Hue, has been featured in royal palaces and everyday life, adorning screens, furniture, and couplets with its intricate decorations. Đạt began learning the technique at 14, meticulously arranging small fragments of mother-of-pearl according to artistic principles to create stunning pieces. "Adhering strictly to traditional methods is the first principle in mastering this delicate and complex craft," Đạt states. The diverse natural colors of mother-of-pearl are enhanced when polished, changing their appearance depending on the viewing angle. In dim light, the inlay work glows with its unique luminescence. Đạt believes the soul of a piece lies in the beauty of its depicted animals, plants, and calligraphy. He pays meticulous attention to harmonizing animal forms, such as deer, cranes, and carp, with the characters. He also selects precious, durable woods like cam lai, trac, and go for the base, ensuring the artwork can last for centuries. The production process, from polishing and cutting the shell to design, carving, and inlaying, can take weeks, months, or even a year. Throughout this period, the artisan's hands, eyes, and imagination work in constant unity to complete a single artwork. However, the rapid changes in modern society cast a shadow on this traditional craft. When Đạt first entered the field, mother-of-pearl inlay paintings and decorative items were widely sought after for homes. Yet, with evolving architectural styles, the "living space" for mother-of-pearl inlay has gradually narrowed. Đạt recognizes that the craft is most suited to traditional houses and wooden structures. To address this challenge, Đạt has adopted a "grow from small to large" strategy. By producing smaller items with accessible price points, ranging from a few million to tens of millions of Vietnamese dong (approximately $100 to $400), he increases opportunities for more customers to experience mother-of-pearl inlay and supports the livelihoods of his workshop's artisans. Currently, Đạt's clientele spans across Vietnamese cities, with some pieces exported abroad. This initiative not only promotes Hue's craftsmanship internationally but also ensures the economic sustainability of preserving traditional techniques. Đạt's workshop also employs local skilled workers, including carpenters and wood carvers, creating jobs for over ten artisans during busy periods. "If artisans cannot earn a daily income and make a living, the tradition cannot be maintained," Đạt emphasizes, highlighting the need for economic support. In 2025, Phan Tấn Đạt was awarded the title of "Hue Artisan" in the field of mother-of-pearl inlay by the Chairman of the Hue City People's Committee, recognizing his dedication to traditional craft and his innovative approach to making it relevant today.