Dongluo Kiln Introduction
Established in 1967, the traditional kiln has been passed down through three generations: Chang Hsin-hsiang, Chang Shih-hao, and Chang Wei-han. With over 50 years of history, this kiln is one of the few remaining traditional kilns in Taiwan that produces large pots and jars using the hand-pressed clay technique. Dongluo Kiln is located on the road from Zhusi Village in Dongluo Township towards Tongxiao. The old roofs witness the rise and fall of the Miaoli ceramics industry. The late founder, Mr. Chang Hsin-hsiang, apprenticed with Master Li Yiwu from Fuzhou at the age of seventeen to learn the hand-pressing technique. In 1967, he independently established the "Dongluo Ceramics Factory," producing flower pots, pickling jars, soy sauce jars, and more. Currently, the kiln is operated by the second-generation owner, Chang Shih-hao, along with his wife Peng Hsiu-mei, and has passed to the third generation, represented by Chang Wei-han and his wife Lin Ying-rui, who have recently begun to embark on the path of inheritance. Dongluo Kiln specializes in traditional Fuzhou-style ceramic techniques, with exceptional skill in hand-pressing and is particularly renowned for producing extra-large jars. The techniques and processes are quite meticulous, making Dongluo's large wine jars famous far and wide. In addition, the hand-pressing skills have produced countless jars and containers for pickling in Miaoli’s Dongluo Hakka Township. Currently, the third-generation owner, Chang Wei-han, is carrying on this traditional craft with the hope of infusing the traditional ceramic industry with youth and continuing the lifeline of Hakka pottery culture. The offerings from Dongluo Kiln are diverse, ranging from small 20-jin wine jars to large 800-jin storage wine jars, various sizes of water tanks for pickling sauerkraut and soy sauce, tea storage containers, wood-fired tea bowls, tea cups, tea sets, large landscape ceramics, and ceramic art creations. They are also actively innovating, researching glaze changes, ensuring practicality for daily life, and striving for diversification. In the future, they plan to add exhibition and sales areas, as well as a storytelling hall, to create value for the old kiln.
