Superior Clays. The process starts by collecting mineral-rich black clay from Vietnamese riverbeds, a material renowned worldwide for its remarkable strength. Once in the studio, several types of clay are mixed together in huge vats. Each artisan studio uses its own proprietary blend of clays.

Frostproofing Techniques.  Next, the clay is extruded repeatedly to completely eliminate all airspaces. This is critical to ensure the frost-proof nature of our pots. All of our pots are rated frost proof *except for the Vietnamese Unglazed and Vietnamese Etched.*

Most pots from other manufacturers contain numerous airspaces that, under some conditions, can collect water. When water expands as it freezes, the mechanical force can cause cracking or breaking.  Not Anamese pots! As long as they’re drained of water, they can be left outside safely in even the coldest weather.

Fired For Strength. Once the pots have been formed by hand, the firing process begins under the watchful eye of the master potter. Wood fires heat the kilns to 1400° Centigrade and are kept stoked to maintain that temperature for a full two weeks.

Firing in wood kilns gives each Anamese container its distinctive character. By contrast, most other pottery is manufactured in gas kilns, creating commonplace commodities, rather than individual works of art.

The lengthy firing at high heat fuses the clay and glaze together. Upon cooling, they form a unified surface – not two separate ones, as in many other pots. This lends an extra measure of strength to the finished vessels.

Enduring Craftsmanship. Each Anamese pot stands as a unique work of art, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who carry on an ancient tradition. Thanks to their tireless attention to detail, their handwork will be enjoyed by many for generations to come.