Dinh Cong Tuong began collecting pottery and ceramics more than 20 years ago and has amassed a record collection of some 100,000 pieces spanning the centuries.
His collection, which also covers China, Singapore, France, Japan and Hong Kong includes hundreds of pieces - cups, dishes, bowls and vases - from the 18th century. His bowls of the kings from the Nguyen dynasties are considered priceless.
Vietnam Book of Records recognised Tuong in 2011 for owning the biggest ancient pottery collection in Vietnam, then more than 80,000 pieces. His collection has since grown to 100,000.
Born in Hanoi, Tuong moved to HCM City with his parents when he was eight. He sold newspapers after school to help the family make ends meet.
After leaving the army, he tried many jobs, from working as a motorbike driver to buying old wrist-watches.
Tuong met many people on the streets, including bonsai growers and ancient pottery collectors.
Pottery took his fancy.
"When I was 24, I returned to Hanoi for the death anniversary of my maternal grandmother. On this occasion, my aunt gave me an old dish and bowl," Tuong said.
"I liked them very much and often carefully looked at them. I became interested in antique collecting, particularly pottery."
Vase priced in hundreds of millions of VND
Mr. Tuong
Priceless vase
Tuong's three-storey home a 'showroom'
Pair of 18th century Bien Hoa pottery horses
Nguyen Dynasty bowl
Many kinds of pottery
Precious copper vase
