The tradition of making knives in the towns of Taramundi and A Pontenova, located in the regions of Asturias and Galicia, respectively, is an artisanal practice that has endured over time and has become a symbol of cultural identity. One of the key elements in this tradition is the use of bog wood, a unique raw material that has been used by artisans for generations. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics and particularities of this wood in the manufacture of Taramundi knives, as well as the relevance of the master craftsman José Rodil in the world of cutlery and the use of this material for the manufacture of knives. and knives.
History and characteristics of bog wood
Bog wood, also known as bog wood, is a type of wood that is formed from the process of preservation and fossilization of trees in bog environments. These peatlands are humid and swampy areas, rich in organic matter and with anaerobic conditions, which allows the conservation of wood for thousands of years. Bog wood can be found in northern regions of Europe, including the Iberian Peninsula.
Bog wood is highly appreciated for its unique characteristics, which make it perfect for the manufacture of artisanal Taramundi knives. Some of these characteristics include its hardness, strength and durability, as well as its aesthetic appearance, with dark tones and unusual grains. Furthermore, as it is a dense wood with a great capacity for absorbing moisture, it is ideal for creating knife handles that adapt to the humid and rainy conditions of the region.
Uses of bog wood
Boxwood has several uses in addition to making knives and other utensils:
• It is used to make buttons, rosary beads, combs and other turned objects. It is a hard, dense wood that is easy to turn.
• It is used in cabinetmaking to make inlays, inlays and small furniture. It has a nice yellowish and veined color.
• It is used in carpentry to make hardware, skirting boards and other parts subject to wear. It is a very hard and resistant wood.
• It is used to make musical instruments such as flutes, clarinets and others. Produces a good sound.
• It is used in turning to make small bowling pins, pool cues and other objects.
Bog wood in the Galician and Asturian artisan tradition
Galician and Asturian artisans have used bog wood in the manufacture of knives and other objects for centuries. The main reason is its availability in the region as well as the aforementioned properties. Additionally, the use of this wood allows artisans to maintain a connection with nature and the local environment, taking advantage of a resource that has been an integral part of the culture and history of the region.
Comparison of bog wood with other woods used for the manufacture of Taramundi knives
Below is a table with the main characteristics of each wood:
| Wood type | wood color | Wood properties | Main use of wood | Birthplace | Exclusiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boxwood | Pale yellow | Hard, resistant and flexible | Carving, turning and cabinetmaking | Europe, Asia and America | high |
| Uz | Dark brown | Hard and resistant | Carpentry and construction | South America | Half |
| Ebony | Black | Hard and heavy | Carving, cabinetmaking and music | Africa | high |
| Rosewood | Reddish brown | Hard and heavy | Joinery and construction | South America | high |
| Olive | Light yellow | Hard and resistant | Cabinetry and utensils | Mediterranean | Half |
| Oak | Light brown | Hard and resistant | Construction, joinery and cooperage | Europe and America | high |
-
Boxwood: It is a hard, resistant and flexible wood, which makes it ideal for carving, turning and cabinetmaking. It is native to Europe, Asia and America, and is considered a highly exclusive wood due to its attractive appearance and the difficulty of working with it.
-
Uz: It is a hard and resistant wood, with a dark brown color. It is mainly used in carpentry and construction. It is native to South America and is considered a medium-exclusive wood due to its availability and common use.
-
Ebony: It is a hard and heavy wood, black in color. It is valued for its beauty and is mainly used in carving, cabinetmaking and musical instrument manufacturing. It is native to Africa and is considered a highly exclusive wood due to its rarity and high cost.
-
Rosewood: It is a hard and heavy wood, reddish brown in color. It is valued for its beauty and is mainly used in cabinetmaking and construction. It is native to South America and is considered a highly exclusive wood due to its beauty and the cost to obtain it.
-
Olive: It is a hard and resistant wood, light yellow in color. It is mainly used in cabinetmaking and utensil manufacturing. It is native to the Mediterranean and is considered a medium exclusivity wood due to its availability and common use.
-
Oak: It is a hard and resistant wood, light brown in color. It is used in construction, joinery and cooperage. It is native to Europe and America and is considered a highly exclusive wood due to its durability and beauty.
The mastery of José Rodil and his Taramundi knives
The master craftsman José Rodil is a reference in the manufacture of Taramundi knives, and his creations with bog wood are especially appreciated. Their skill and experience in selecting and treating bog wood, as well as their attention to detail in every step of the manufacturing process, have led to their knives being considered the best from Taramundi in Spain.
Furthermore, José Rodil has been a defender of the conservation and promotion of the artisan tradition in the manufacture of knives. He has shared his knowledge and techniques with new generations, ensuring that knife making in Taramundi and A Pontenova continues to be a fundamental part of the region's cultural heritage.
In summary, bog wood is an exceptional raw material that has been used in the manufacture of Taramundi knives for centuries, and its importance in the artisanal tradition of the region is undeniable. Artificers like José Rodil have perfected the use of this wood in their creations, becoming ambassadors of this tradition and guaranteeing its survival in the future.