Impressing paddles used to create patterns,pottery,Hoa Loc culture (Thanh Hoa province), c. 4,000-3,000 BP.
Impressing paddles used to create patterns,pottery,Hoa Loc culture (Thanh Hoa province), c. 4,000-3,000 BP.
The uniqueness of the Hoa Loc culture is shown in the collection of impressing paddles used to make decoration on pottery. The paddles are usually flat or slightly curved, and have handles. The paddles are carved with patterns in the shape of water drops or tablature. According to some scholars, these paddles could have been used to create decoration on textiles or on the human body (prior to tattoo tradition). The collection of impressing paddles reflects the delicate sense of aesthetics and creativeness of the Hoa Loc people; this sense contributed to the diversity of ancient Vietnam pottery.