kummari

Kummari is a term that can refer to several things, primarily in the context of traditional Finnish culture and craftsmanship. One common meaning is a type of wooden ladle or scoop, often used for serving food or liquids, particularly from larger pots or containers. These kummari were typically hand-carved from a single piece of wood, often birch or pine, and featured a distinctive shape with a deep bowl and a handle. The craftsmanship involved in creating a kummari could vary, with some being simple and functional while others were more ornate, sometimes decorated with carvings or embellishments.

Another, less common, usage of kummari can relate to a type of boat or a specific part of a boat's structure in certain historical maritime contexts, although this is not as widely recognized as the wooden utensil. The word's etymology is rooted in the Finnish language, likely describing a scooping or cupping motion. In contemporary Finnish, the term is most frequently associated with the wooden ladle, often found in folk art collections or used in traditional cooking demonstrations. The practicality and aesthetic appeal of the wooden kummari have ensured its continued presence as an artifact of Finnish heritage.