Kulmakiveen

Kulmakiveen refers to a traditional Finnish folk practice involving the use of a small, curved knife known as a *kulmakivi* (literally "eyebrow stone" or "eyebrow knife"). This tool was historically employed in rural Finland, particularly among women, for grooming and cosmetic purposes. The practice was most prominent in the 19th and early 20th centuries, though it gradually declined with the adoption of modern grooming tools.

The *kulmakivi* was typically made of metal, often iron or steel, and featured a distinctive curved blade designed to shape eyebrows, pluck facial hair, or trim mustaches. Unlike modern tweezers or razors, the *kulmakivi* was manually operated, requiring skill and precision. It was often passed down through generations as a family heirloom, symbolizing both practicality and cultural tradition.

The use of the *kulmakivi* was tied to broader Finnish customs of self-care and beauty. Women would use it to maintain neat eyebrows, which were considered an important aspect of appearance. The tool was also sometimes used for minor grooming tasks like trimming nails or cutting thread. Over time, as urbanization and industrialization spread, the *kulmakivi* fell out of common use, replaced by more accessible and standardized grooming instruments.

Today, the *kulmakivi* is largely a relic of the past, though it remains a fascinating artifact of Finnish folk culture. Some collectors and enthusiasts preserve these knives as historical curiosities, and they occasionally appear in exhibitions or cultural displays. The practice itself serves as a reminder of how everyday objects were integral to traditional lifestyles in Finland.