At first glance, Hải Minh Commune might seem like just another small village south of Nam Định City. But a closer look reveals a vibrant community where antique dealers thrive.
This is the heart of auctions, where bids fly fast and furious as collectors vie for treasures to add to their collections.
Antique Roots
Hải Minh Commune has a rich history steeped in antiquities. Over two centuries ago, the Phạm family introduced antiques to the area and were highly esteemed by the Nguyễn Dynasty. The family’s prowess in governance and military strategy earned them precious gifts from royalty, embedding a love for collectibles in the community.
According to Đỗ Văn Tĩnh, vice-chairman of the Hải Hậu Antiquities Association, collecting antiques is a refined hobby. “It’s a blend of passion and profit,” he explains. Tĩnh inherited this passion from his grandfather and has been collecting for 30 years, both locally and internationally.
In Hải Minh, a variety of professions cater to the antique trade, including repairers, traders, and appraisers. In the Tân Tiến area, numerous antique shops showcase items ranging from bronze to porcelain, some valued at millions or even billions of đồng.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Antique hunters in Hải Minh travel far and wide, seeking treasures from regions renowned for their wealth, including Bạc Liêu, Cần Thơ, An Giang, and even countries like Thailand, China, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Trần Văn Lưu, a collector and Vice Chairman of the Thiên Trường Antiquities Association, recounts how some items took decades to find. The art of antique hunting has deep roots in Hải Minh and Hải Hậu, with associations established in 2000 to unite collectors.
The Future of Antiques
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the antique industry is growing. However, the lack of professionals to appraise items and distinguish real antiques from forgeries remains a concern.
Nevertheless, there is hope as more young people are recognizing the value of antiques and entering the profession. Nguyễn Thu Huyền, a collector from a neighboring district, notes the increasing interest and awareness among the younger generation about the cultural significance of antiques.
Hải Minh Commune is not just a village; it’s a living testament to the enduring allure of antiquities.
