(Baonghean) - The "vính," or "vinh" as the Thai people call it, is a tool used to catch fish in streams. It's a very familiar and common tool for some ethnic groups like the Thai and Khmu in western Nghe An province. The "vinh" is simply designed, consisting of a triangular net made of nylon attached to a triangular or circular bamboo frame. Although simple, not many people can make a "vinh" that is both beautiful and sturdy.
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| Women use a scoop to catch fish. |
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| The initial mesh is the most important step. |
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| Heat the frame over a fire to bend it. |
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| The needle made from buffalo horn used to weave the net is what makes up the "vinh" (a type of ceremonial ornament). |
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| The "glory" has been completed. |
The most difficult part of making a fishing net is the initial weaving of the netting and the bending of the frame. If the netting is not woven skillfully, it will wrinkle in one place when used, making it very difficult to catch the animals the net user can scoop. Bending the frame also requires experience; one must select mature bamboo or rattan. In particular, the bending process must be done carefully over a fire; without experience, the frame will become warped, broken, or cracked.
Photo gallery:Ho Phuong
