NON LA (CONICAL HAT) - THE BEAUTY OF VIETNAMESE CULTURE

The conical hat is a familiar and simple image of Vietnamese people, an indispensable symbol of the national culture. With a simple but sophisticated shape, the conical hat is not only a useful rain and sun protection item but also a unique work of art. Conical hats are an indispensable part of the lives of Vietnamese people, especially villagers.

History of conical hats

Conical hats have a long history, possibly originating thousands of years ago. This type of hat may have appeared since the time of Hung King when the Vietnamese people still lived nomadic lives in the dense forests. The first hats were made of palm leaves, then gradually replaced by coconut leaves and dong leaves. By the Nguyen Dynasty, conical hats became an indispensable accessory for women when going out. Today, conical hats are still very popular and are one of the most characteristic symbols of Vietnamese culture.

How to make traditional conical hats

To make a traditional conical hat, the craftsman must go through many complicated and meticulous steps. First, the leaves must be dried and cut into small pieces. Then, the worker will use a needle and thread to weave together into a pyramid shape. When the hat body is completed, the craftsman will add a thin layer of fabric to cover the joints. Finally, the conical hats are dried and dyed.

Traditional conical hats often have a simple shape, consisting of 4-6 coconut or dong leaves woven together. Each hat has different sizes and shapes, depending on the purpose of use and the region of production. Conical hats can also be decorated with simple or complex patterns, creating diversity and uniqueness for each hat.

Conical hats in Vietnamese culture

The conical hat is an important symbol of Vietnamese culture. It is not simply an accessory to cover the rain or sun, but also carries a profound meaning about the spirit and qualities of the Vietnamese people.

Popular types of conical hats in Vietnam

In Vietnamese culture, there are many types of conical hats used, depending on the region and purpose of use. Below are some popular types of conical hats in Vietnam:

·Northern conical hat: Made of coconut or dong leaves, has a round and compact shape. This type of hat is often used to block the sun when working in the fields or going to the market.

·Southern conical hats: Also made of coconut leaves or dong leaves, but larger in size and slightly more square in shape than Northern conical hats. Southern conical hats are often used to cover the rain or when traveling.

·Hue conical hat: Made of coconut leaves and has a round shape with a large diameter. Hue conical hats are often used in festivals and religious ceremonies.

·Conical hats of the Central Highlands: Made of palm leaves and have a round shape but are taller than Northern and Southern conical hats. This type of hat is often used by ethnic minorities in the Central Highlands.

Conical hats and folk art

Not only a common item, conical hats are also considered a work of Vietnamese folk art. The conical hats are decorated with intricate patterns and motifs, creating uniqueness and sophistication for each hat. Many conical hat makers have passed on the craft of making conical hats to their descendants, ensuring the survival and development of this art in Vietnamese culture.

The importance of conical hats in Vietnamese life

Non La is not only a cultural symbol but also plays an important role in the daily life of Vietnamese people. It is used for sun protection, rain protection, and protecting the head from harsh sunlight and rainstorms. Conical hats are also an indispensable accessory when working in the fields, going to the market, or traveling.

The diversity of conical hats in different regions of Vietnam

Each region in Vietnam has its own types of conical hats, suitable for natural conditions and people's needs. For example, in high mountains, where the climate is cold and the winds are strong, people often use conical hats that are large in size and made of palm leaves to protect their heads from the cold wind. Meanwhile, in the delta, where the climate is hot and humid, people often use compact conical hats made of coconut leaves to protect themselves from the sun.

Conical hats and their uses in daily life

Conical hats not only protect against rain and sun but also have many other uses in the daily lives of Vietnamese people. For example, it is used to store things when going to the market, as a small construction material for traditional houses, or as a decorative material for festivals and religious ceremonies.

Conical hat and interesting stories surrounding it

Non La hats are not simply a common item but also carry interesting stories and profound meanings. According to legend, conical hats are considered a symbol of protection and luck. People believe that when wearing conical hats, they will be protected from disasters and receive good things in life.

Another story tells how conical hats are considered a woman's "weapon" in life. In the past, when men went out to work, women would wear conical hats and carry a sapling to protect the family from natural dangers or intruders.

Non La and its role in Vietnamese tourism

Conical hats are also an indispensable symbol in Vietnam's tourism industry. It is considered a typical gift of Vietnam, loved by many international tourists and brought back as souvenirs. Conical hats are also used in tourism programs to introduce Vietnamese culture and traditions.

 

Above are interesting things about conical hats - the beauty of Vietnamese culture. From a common item, Non La (conical hat) has become an important symbol in the life and culture of Vietnamese people. The diversity and uniqueness of conical hats are also a highlight of the diverse and rich culture of this country. Hopefully, through this article, you will understand more about the importance and meaning of conical hats in Vietnamese life and culture.