Traditional Guksi (Kulsa) Wooden Spoon-Bowl – Nordic Style

Traditional Guksi (Kulsa) Wooden Spoon-Bowl – Nordic Style

What is a Guksi and What is it For?

A Guksi (or Kuksa/Kulsa) is a traditional wooden vessel that combines the properties of a bowl, scoop, and spoon. Its design has been proven over centuries of use in harsh Nordic conditions.

Traditional Nordic Design

This Guksi is made of wood, its surface carefully sanded and without any further chemical surface treatment to highlight the natural beauty of the material. The handle features a practical hole (approx. 7 mm / 0.28 inches in diameter) through which you can thread a leather cord for hanging on your belt, backpack, or in the kitchen.

Versatile Use

The Guksi is a great addition to your camp gear or feasting tableware:

• Drinking and Scooping: Ideal for drinking water, mead, or other beverages, as well as for scooping soups, porridge, or stews directly from the cauldron into your bowl.
• Hydrating Fighters: During demonstrations or battles, you can hang several of these Guksis on a water bucket to keep your fellow combatants hydrated.
• Stylish Accessory: Adds authenticity to your historical or fantasy character.
• Everyday Joy: Many users of traditional wooden tableware appreciate the specific, pleasant taste of drinks and meals served in wooden vessels.

From the History of the Guksi: The Personal Cup of the Sami

The Guksi is a traditional, hand-carved wooden cup intrinsically linked with the culture of the Sami people (Lapps) in Northern Scandinavia. For the Sami, the Guksi was not just an ordinary vessel but a personal item that often accompanied them throughout their lives. It was a symbol of self-sufficiency and connection with nature. Each family member usually had their own Guksi, which they cherished.

Interesting Fact: More Than Just a Vessel

Traditionally, Guksis were made from birch burls (spherical outgrowths on birch trunks), which are very durable and have a beautiful grain. According to Sami tradition, a Guksi should not be washed with soap, only rinsed with clean water, to preserve its "memory" and specific properties. It was believed that a Guksi brings good luck and that a gifted Guksi holds even greater value.

Product Specifications

• Product Type: Wooden Spoon-Bowl Guksi / Kulsa
• Material: Natural Wood (wood type may vary depending on current availability, e.g., mango, mahogany, hickory, oak, beech, maple – always healthy hardwood)
• Surface Finish: Smoothly sanded, without further chemical treatment
• Overall Length: approx. 18 cm (approx. 7.1 inches)
• Height/Depth of Bowl: approx. 4.5 cm (approx. 1.8 inches)
• Width of Bowl (external): approx. 8.9 cm (approx. 3.5 inches)
• Capacity: approx. half a cup (approx. 100-120 ml / 3.4-4 fl oz)
• Hole in Handle: diameter approx. 7 mm (approx. 0.28 inches)
• Weight: approx. 112 g (approx. 3.95 oz)
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®

As this is a natural and handmade product, dimensions, wood color, and grain may vary slightly between individual pieces.

Caring for Your Wooden Guksi

To ensure your Guksi serves you for a long time and retains its beauty:

• Before First Use: It is recommended to lightly rinse the Guksi with warm water.
• Washing: After use, immediately rinse the Guksi with clean, warm water. Do not use aggressive detergents or scouring pads. Do not leave it soaked in water for extended periods.
• Drying: After washing, dry the Guksi thoroughly with a cloth and let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Do not expose it to direct sunlight or heat sources (e.g., radiators), as it could crack.
• Conditioning: From time to time (e.g., once a month or as needed if the wood appears dry), you can rub the Guksi with a small amount of food-safe oil (e.g., linseed, coconut, or walnut oil, or special wood oil for tableware). Apply the oil in a thin layer, let it soak in, and wipe off any excess.
• Not Suitable For: The Guksi is not suitable for dishwashers or microwave ovens.