tarkoitumuotojen

Tarkoitumuotojen are a type of Finnish folk art that originated in the 19th century. They are traditional wooden toys, often made by hand, that are designed to represent various animals, birds, and other creatures. The toys are typically small, ranging from a few centimeters to about 15 centimeters in height, and are often painted in vibrant colors.

The name "tarkoitumuotojen" comes from the Finnish words "tarkoitus," meaning "intention" or "purpose," and "muoto," meaning "form" or "shape." This reflects the idea that the toys were originally made with a specific purpose in mind, such as to teach children about nature or to serve as decorative items.

Tarkoitumuotojen are often associated with the Finnish folk tradition of "kullervo," which is a type of folk tale that tells the story of a young man who is transformed into an animal and must find his way back to his human form. The toys are sometimes used to illustrate these stories, with each toy representing a different character or creature from the tale.

Today, tarkoitumuotojen are still made by hand by skilled craftsmen, and they are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. They are also popular as decorative items and as gifts, and can be found in many Finnish homes and museums. The art of making tarkoitumuotojen has been passed down through generations, and it continues to be an important part of Finnish cultural heritage.