Native’s Ulu from Greenland!!!

[COPE412]

I was just gifted this treasure from my wife’s uncle- who was in the military and spent some time in Greenland. The natives would come to the boats and trade with the troops, and he traded a carton of Marlboro Cigarettes for this ulu. That was back in the early 1970’s. This was the condition that it was in when the native had it. He doesn’t know the origin of the blade as far as forging, etc. but he kept it in this original state of oil and fat from fleshing out large and small game. Still has a sticky feel to the wood and a faint smell. Even after 50 years. This could be something that was passed from generation to generation as natives pass ulus along similar to Alaskan natives. A tool and blade that has gone unchanged throughout human history. I will be forging one of these when I get some experience. Thought you guys would enjoy. Any information would be appreciated! Such as origin, age, etc.

 

[John A. Larsen]

I googled "Images of Greenland Ulus" an a photo showed up of one that looked just like yours. It was identified as an East Greenland style Ulu, and they said there were also North and West Greenland style Ulus. The blade looks like it came from a saw, which apparently was pretty common, as I do not think folks there actually worked steel as in forging. Nice gift! John

 

[Wild Willie]

Great piece! I'd be awfully tempted to put that to work in the kitchen.

 

[oldmanwilly]

Nothing to add other than that it's a really cool piece of family history. Thanks for sharing!

 

[AZWhetted]

I’ve used ulus at the table for over 40 years, started when I lived in Alaska. Most were cheap stainless tourist blades - which while ugly performed well. It was easy enough to replace them when they wore out - just a fifteen minute drive into town. I almost wouldn’t know how to use a steak knife anymore, the ulus work so much better.

I really didn’t like using the “authentic” ulus made from saw blades, the various handles never felt right in my hand and the blades required extra care to prevent rust. Today I use modern designs which while not exactly traditional look nicer and work much better for me. I gifted my last Inupiat ulu some years ago, but after seeing the OP’s blade wish I still had it.




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