Yew

Yew

Yew wood, which comes from Taxus baccata wood, is one of the most valuable woods in Europe. This coniferous tree is known for its longevity, slow growth and excellent wood properties that have made it attractive for various purposes since ancient times. In addition to its wood, the yew tree is known for its poisonous parts (with the exception of the pulp around the seeds) and its symbolic importance in mythology and history.

Yew wood has a wonderful range of colors. The heartwood is usually dark red to orange-brown, while the sapwood (outer part) is creamy white to pale yellow. This contrast is very attractive and often used in decorative crafts. The wood has a fine and even texture with a beautiful natural pattern. After proper polishing, it achieves a high gloss.

Yew wood is very hard, strong and durable. It has a high density, which makes it resistant to wear and rot. Despite its hardness, yew wood is relatively easy to work with and can be cut, turned, polished and carved.

In the past, yew wood was highly valued for making bows, especially the long bows used by English archers (for example, during medieval battles). The combination of flexibility and strength of yew wood was ideal for this purpose.

During antiquity, containers, tools and decorative items were also made from it.

However, the yew tree is now considered a rare tree in many areas of Europe, as it was heavily logged in the past for its unique wood. In some countries it is protected by law. The tree is also very slow growing, which means that its regeneration takes tens to hundreds of years.

Toxicity: Although yew is among the valuable trees, it is also known for its toxicity. All parts of the tree are toxic, except for the red pulp around the seeds. This toxicity was used in the past for the production of poisons.

In many cultures, the yew tree is a symbol of longevity, immortality and spiritual protection. He often landed in cemeteries and sacred groves.

The wood I use is from the roots and growths on the trunks. In these parts, the structure is most interesting.