Labu Sayong

           The traditional art of pitcher making has been around for many years, but this industry is still very much alive in selected areas of Peninsula Malaysia.These pitchers showcase he beauty of Malaysia's heritage and most of creations can be attributed to the skill and natural talent of the women folk.The art of pitcher making involves the shaping of clay, which is then printed with various designs, smoked and baked to form a handicrafts which is lots beautiful and unique.One of the most famous pitcher is the Labu Sayong, which is black in colour and can be found in Sayong, in the district of Kuala Kangsar, Perak.


 

        

          The mere mention of the name Sayong evokes the image of the famous black gourd-shaped clay pitcher.The idea of creating this gourd-shaped clay pitcher originated from the use of the actual matured pumpkin (Labu) to store water, after the contents had been removed and the inside cleaned. In the past, Labu Sayong was widely used to store drinking water buy the MalaysThe amazing things about this black clay pitcher is that it keeps the water cool and is belived to help prevent illness and stomach disorder.



Traditionally, nature with comprises element of soil, water, wind, and heat provides the inspiration to the pot maker while motives of flora, fauna and geometric are the adorning attractions which change with the flow of time and era.The making of Labu Sayong emphasises the elements of nature, from the use of the clay right to the technique of shaping it with the hands.The surface design is usually made-up of nature-inspired motifs and harmonious geometric shapes.Till this day, Labu Sayong is greatly admired, not only for its utility, but for its beauty and aesthetic quality.