Likely sapele (African mahogany); utile or another mahogany-family wood is a possible alternative.
Entandrophragma cylindricum (probable) · Hardwood; tropical African species
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; tropical African species
- Origin
- Tropical West and Central Africa.
- Hardness
- About 1,410 lbf Janka — Hard.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to decay and insects.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly interlocked, with fine, dark longitudinal streaks; the image shows no clear figured or quarter-sawn pattern.
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown with darker streaking and fairly even color; sapele typically deepens and reddens with age and light exposure. Surface luster appears moderate.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,410 lbf Janka — Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to decay and insects.
Value & Age
Approximately US$8–18 per board foot for ordinary surfaced stock; grade, thickness, and region affect price.
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 photo; visible color alone does not establish age.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, doors, veneer, joinery, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West and Central Africa.
Workability
Generally machines and finishes well, but interlocked grain can tear out during planing; predrilling is useful for fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively and use a sealer followed by oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, as color and grain contrast can vary.
Notable Features
Often has a ribbon-like figure on quarter-sawn faces and a mildly spicy scent when freshly worked; neither is clearly assessable here.
