Likely spalted maple, possibly red maple or box elder; the pale wood and dramatic zone lines are characteristic of spalted maple.
Acer spp., most likely Acer rubrum or Acer saccharum · Hardwood; domestic North American, turned solid wood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American, turned solid wood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- Approximately 950–1,450 lbf Janka depending on species: Medium to Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay, while spalting indicates prior fungal colonization.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, with irregular swirling, knots, and dark spalting zone lines; likely flat- or irregular-sawn and turned into a bowl.
Color & Appearance
Cream to pale tan sapwood with reddish-brown and gray-brown spalting, darker heartwood-like areas, and high polished luster. Maple generally remains light but can amber slightly with age and finish.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 950–1,450 lbf Janka depending on species: Medium to Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay, while spalting indicates prior fungal colonization.
Value & Age
Approximately $15–$50 per board foot for attractive spalted maple; a finished bowl may retail for roughly $50–$200+ depending on size and craftsmanship.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The bowl’s age cannot be determined reliably from the photograph; visible patina appears light, suggesting years rather than obvious decades of exposure.
Common Uses
Decorative bowls, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turning blanks, and small specialty objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though spalting can create soft pockets, tearout, and uneven absorption. Sharp tools and thorough sanding are important.
Finish Recommendations
Apply sanding sealer, then oil, shellac, lacquer, or wipe-on polyurethane; thin cyanoacrylate or resin may stabilize soft spalting before finishing.
Notable Features
Striking natural spalting, knots, color transitions, and figured swirling; the polished turned surface produces strong chatoyance.