Teapot similar to those used on TU DO
Datec 1991
Object number00031106
NameTeapot
MediumCeramic, plastic, wire
DimensionsOverall: 160 x 170 x 130 mm, 0.75 kg
Display Dimensions: 180 x 140 x 170 mm
Display Dimensions: 180 x 140 x 170 mm
ClassificationsTableware and furnishings
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionWhite china tea pot with blue glazed decoration.
Purchased in Vietnam in 1997 to interpret the Vietnamese refugee vessel TU DO.
The matching teacups are registered as 00031107 - 00031116.HistoryThe Australian National Maritime Museum has a Vietnamese refugee boat called TU DO (VNKG1062ADC) in its collection which brought 31 passengers from Kien Giang Province to Australia in November 1977.
The refugees left Vietnam with few possessions making it difficult to tell their story. To rectify this Australian Museum National Maritime Museum curator Helen Trepa and Tan Thanh Lu, the builder and captain of TU DO, travelled to Vietnam in 1997 to seek out and purchase a collection of items that would bring the voyage to life. In this they were assisted by Hung Nguyen, a friend of Mr Lu who helped him prepare his escape.
They selected items that were typical of those used on TU DO in 1977 mainly dealing with sleeping, fishing and cooking. Whenever possible second hand items from the 1970s were purchased to better reflect the era. Items unavailable second hand were purchased new.
These items represent the communal life on board TU DO and provide insight into Mr Lu's preparations for the escape.
