Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include oak or mahogany, though the fine, dark grain favors walnut.
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has fair resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine, and fairly open-grained, with subtle cathedral/curly variation visible on the drawer fronts and darker edge molding.
Color & Appearance
Medium golden-brown to chocolate-brown heartwood with darker streaking; the glossy finish enhances warmth and modest chatoyance. Walnut commonly lightens or becomes more amber-brown with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has fair resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.
Value & Age
About $8–$15 per board foot for clear kiln-dried walnut; antique furniture value depends chiefly on construction and provenance.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The furniture appears several decades old, perhaps 40–80 years, but wood age cannot be determined reliably from a photograph.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, drawers, veneers, gunstocks, turned components, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though reversing grain can cause localized tear-out. Pre-drilling is advisable for screws near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Clean gently, test compatibility, then use a compatible hardwax oil, lacquer, shellac, or wipe-on polyurethane; avoid aggressive sanding that may remove veneer or patina.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark color, attractive grain contrast, moderate weight, and good dimensional stability; the visible surface is likely stained or shellacked.
