Comb-shaped Boxwood Spoon

The Taraklı boxwood spoon is a traditional handicraft product closely associated with the district of Taraklı in Sakarya. These spoons, handcrafted from boxwood trees, are distinguished by their oval-shaped, slightly concave bowl. The boxwood, sourced from trunks with a minimum diameter of 15 cm, is seasoned before processing; if necessary, it is soaked in water to enhance workability. This production method has been sustained over generations through skilled craftsmanship.

Taraklı Boxwood Spoon (AA)

Registration and Geographical Indication

The Taraklı boxwood spoon was registered as a geographical indication product on 09.08.2021 under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property. This product, registered by the Sakarya Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is considered under the geographical indication framework only when produced within the boundaries of Taraklı district. The label “Taraklı boxwood spoon” and the official geographical indication emblem must appear on the product or its packaging; if this is not feasible, the emblem must be visibly displayed at the production site.

Production Process and Tools Used

The handcraft-based production process is carried out using the following original tools and methods:

• Keser: A small tool with a minimum 40° incline and no nail-removal section; used to shape the rough form of the spoon.
• Tezgâh (Tez): A work surface equipped with grooves to hold the wood in place.
• Eğdi (İğdi): A long-handled cutting tool used to hollow out the spoon’s bowl.
• Kazıma bıçakları: Various short-handled knives used to carve the head, handle, and inner surfaces.

Initially, a rough shape (blank) is carved from the boxwood trunk using an axe. The blank is then placed on the tezgâh and cross-cut to refine its form. Next, the spoon’s bowl is hollowed, its edges smoothed, and the handle shaped. Detailed work is performed sequentially using the eğdi and kazıma bıçakları. After the entire production process, the spoons are dried naturally under sunlight. Optionally, they are painted green or red, then polished with bezir oil and pine resin to complete the finish.

Production Stage (AA)

Characteristics of Patterns on the Spoon

Spoon Bowl Pattern: Features a central red flower with branches and leaf extensions radiating from it. Red tones are preferred to add depth to the design.

Leaf Pattern: Leaves surrounding the flower have either straight or rounded edges and are typically applied in green.

Flower Pattern: Uses circular or tulip-shaped blossoms with petal-like crowns resembling daisies. Flower centers are painted with yellow gold leaf.

Edge Line: A second line is drawn inside the spoon’s bowl to emphasize its form and create a slender appearance.

Top Finish Pattern: Leaf-shaped motifs are applied to the end of the handle.

Bouquet, Pot, and Free Leaf Patterns: Motifs in bouquet or pot forms are used to create intricate and original compositions.

Handle Pattern: Branch and leaf designs extend along the handle, often centered around a single flower.

Coloring Stage (Western Black Sea Development Agency)

Geographical Link and Production Conditions

The Taraklı boxwood spoon is deeply connected to the region’s cultural heritage. All stages of production must be carried out within the boundaries of Taraklı. In this context, the traditional craft passed down from generation to generation remains one of the key elements that enhance the product’s value.

Inspection Process

The product’s compliance is inspected at least once a year by Taraklı Municipality and Taraklı Community Education Center under the coordination of the Sakarya Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Inspections verify the use of boxwood, adherence to traditional production methods, and correct placement of the emblem. When necessary, support may be sought from public or private experts.

Taraklı Boxwood Spoon (AA)

In Taraklı, this craft is increasingly maintained by a diminishing number of master artisans. These masters are making efforts to preserve local production and ensure the continuation of the trade to promote the district’s identity.