NÀ PHA - THE ART OF DECORATIVE PATTERNS OF THE TAI PEOPLE IN NGHE AN

This textile collection owned by Truc Lam Handmade One Member Company Limited, consists of 190 quilts (nà pha), with 101 artifacts (nà pha) have been appraised and granted the Certificate of Registration for relics, antiquities and national artifacts under the Decision No. 1195/QĐ-SVHTT.

They were collected in the 1990s from the White Tai (Tay Muong group) in western Nghe An province.

With an age ranging from 30 to 90 years, this collection is considered one of the rare remaining textile heritage pieces.

The collection not only reflects the worldview and philosophy of the Thai people but also carries historical and cultural significance, especially showcasing the Tai's aesthetic values through their unique and sophisticated use of color and patterns.

Embroidery Technique

In the Tai textile collection, in addition to the prominent main patterns, there are always smaller ones used to fill the empty spaces on the fabric. Most quilts feature a combination of multiple patterns, some of which must be executed using embroidery techniques. Embroidered patterns are not only rich and diverse in shapes and colors but also accommodate both stylized and realistic representation forms. Embroidery offers creative freedom in depicting patterns and allows for flexibility in shaping. As a result, it overcomes the limitations of weaving techniques, which can struggle with creating soft and fluid curves. This embroidery technique particularly excels on skirts, where the realistic, sharp, and vibrant patterns enhance the artistic and aesthetic value of the products.