Most likely Sapele; alternatives include African mahogany or Spanish cedar.
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Hardwood; African tropical/exotic
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; African tropical/exotic
- Origin
- Tropical West and Central Africa, especially Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Gabon.
- Hardness
- Janka approximately 1,410 lbf — Hard.
- Durability
- Durable; generally good resistance to decay and insects, though performance varies with grain and exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine-to-medium texture, with narrow interlocked/striped figure visible on the face; likely flatsawn or riftsawn.
Color & Appearance
Salmon-pink to reddish brown with darker longitudinal streaks; heartwood darkens toward warm reddish brown and develops moderate luster with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka approximately 1,410 lbf — Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; generally good resistance to decay and insects, though performance varies with grain and exposure.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for clear retail stock; figured or instrument-grade 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 clean, recently machined sample; apparent age is likely years rather than decades of exposed patina.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, doors, boat interiors, veneer, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West and Central Africa, especially Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Gabon.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well, but interlocked grain can tear out during planing; predrilling and sharp tooling are advisable. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Apply a sanding sealer, oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane after careful sanding; grain filling improves a high-gloss finish.
Notable Features
Often shows ribbon or pommele figure, moderate weight, and a mahogany-like appearance; the pictured piece has subtle striped figure.
