Traditional Blacksmith Craft of Nung An People

The Nung An ethnic people in Phuc Sen Commune, Quang Uyen District in the northern mountainous province of Cao Bang are famous for their traditional blacksmith craft. Out of 10 hamlets in the commune, 200 households from 6 hamlets are engaged in the craft. When visiting these hamlets, one can see a diverse range of forges and tools sold on both sides of the road, while the sound of hammer blows resounds across the village. Besides the normal forge tools, such as bellows, anvils, hammers and water troughs, the Nung An people also build earthen cylinder kilns, about 80cm in height and 60cm in diameter. Thanks to their secret techniques and expertise, the Nung An people have a reputation for making very sharp and durable products. These products are indispensable utensils in the daily life of ethnic people living in mountainous areas. To promote the development of the traditional craft, the Nung An people often bring their products to sell at Quang Uyen Market so they can raise funds for agricultural tools, blacksmithing tools and materials. Lately they have started selling their products to other localities in the country. (english.vovnews.vn Aug 8)