Most likely Sapele; alternatives include African mahogany or darkened genuine mahogany. — Entandrophragma cylindricum

Most likely Sapele; alternatives include African mahogany or darkened genuine mahogany.

Entandrophragma cylindricum · Hardwood; Exotic/Tropical

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; Exotic/Tropical
Origin
Tropical West and Central Africa, especially Cameroon, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria.
Hardness
Janka about 1,410 lbf — Hard.
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood offers reasonable resistance to decay and insects, but is not exceptionally weather-resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to slightly interlocked grain, with fine linear streaking; no obvious figured or quarter-sawn figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Medium reddish-brown to golden brown heartwood with subdued luster; sapwood is paler. It commonly darkens and reddens with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka about 1,410 lbf — Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood offers reasonable resistance to decay and insects, but is not exceptionally weather-resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$8–18 per board foot for ordinary surfaced stock; figured or premium clear material may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this single finished face; surface wear and oxidation suggest an older or previously used piece, but not a specific age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, doors, architectural millwork, veneer, boat interiors, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Tropical West and Central Africa, especially Cameroon, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well, though interlocked grain can tear out during planing. Pre-drilling is advisable; gluing and finishing are usually straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Sand carefully and apply a dewaxed shellac sealer, oil, lacquer, or polyurethane. Use a washcoat if blotching or uneven absorption occurs.

Notable Features

Often has a characteristic cedar-like scent and attractive ribbon figure when quarter-sawn; moderate dimensional stability.

Learn more about Most likely Sapele; alternatives include African mahogany or darkened genuine mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 21, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Sapele; Alternatives Include African Mahogany Or Darkened Genuine Mahogany. in the encyclopedia

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