Most likely figured maple (possibly bigleaf maple); poplar or another pale hardwood is an alternative.
Acer macrophyllum (if bigleaf maple); species cannot be confirmed from this image alone. · Hardwood; figured lumber.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; figured lumber.
- Origin
- Bigleaf maple is native to western North America, especially the Pacific coastal region.
- Hardness
- Bigleaf maple: about 850 lbf, at the lower end of Medium; other maple species vary substantially.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple is not notably resistant to decay or insects, especially outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight grain with pronounced wavy, curly or quilt-like figure around a knot and along the lower center; likely flat-sawn. No clear end grain is visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan with subtle brown streaks and darker knot-associated figure. Unfinished surface; maple typically ambers somewhat with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Bigleaf maple: about 850 lbf, at the lower end of Medium; other maple species vary substantially.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple is not notably resistant to decay or insects, especially outdoors.
Value & Age
Highly variable; figured maple lumber commonly sells for roughly US$8–30+ per board foot, depending on figure, grade, thickness, and location.
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 appearance; the pale, apparently unfinished surface offers few aging clues.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, decorative panels, veneer, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Bigleaf maple is native to western North America, especially the Pacific coastal region.
Workability
Generally machines and finishes well, though figured grain can tear out during planing; sharp cutters and light passes help. Pre-drilling is useful for fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully with the grain and use a clear oil, lacquer, or polyurethane to enrich the figure; test finish first, as uneven absorption may occur.
Notable Features
Strong decorative figure surrounds a dark knot; the exact figure and species are difficult to verify from a single face photograph.
