Wenge
Millettia laurentii • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Course and straight grain with a distinctive "partridge wood" pattern; features very thin, closely spaced parenchyma bands that create a unique streaked figure on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood is a very dark brown, almost black, with alternating light brown to nearly white bands (parenchyma). It has a low natural luster and typically darkens further to a nearly uniform black over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,930 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and termite attack, suitable for heavy flooring and exterior use.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (specifically bass guitar necks and fingerboards), turning, and luxury flooring.
Geographic Origin
Central Africa (primarily Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $40.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width; veneer is also highly valued.
Wood Age Estimate
The finished piece appears to be a contemporary or mid-late 20th-century reproduction of Ming-style furniture, likely 20-50 years old based on the surface wear and patina.
Sustainability Status
Endangered (IUCN Red List); listed due to a population reduction of over 50% in the last three generations caused by biological use and exploitation.
Workability
Challenging to work with; it is very hard and heavy. Tends to splinter easily. It has a high blunting effect on cutters. Gluing can be difficult due to natural oils, and the dust is known to cause skin and respiratory irritation.
Notable Features
Famous for its high density and 'phantom' or 'feathered' grain. The wood is naturally very oily and heavy. It has excellent acoustic properties. Large pores can make finishing a smooth surface difficult without fillers.
Finish Recommendations
Oil finishes (like Tung or Danish oil) are best to highlight the unique grain depth; lacquer or polyurethane can be used but grain filling is typically required for a high-gloss look.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-to-black color variation paired with the specific feathered grain pattern visible on the chair rail and seat is diagnostic for Wenge, especially in the context of this furniture style.