Likely Sapele (African mahogany); useful alternatives are utile or another mahogany-family wood.
Entandrophragma cylindricum (probable) · Hardwood; tropical
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; tropical
- Origin
- Native to tropical West and Central Africa; commercially sourced across the region.
- Hardness
- About 1,410 lbf — Hard.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has some resistance to decay and insects, but is not intended for prolonged exposure without protection.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to slightly interlocked grain, with visible ribbon-like figure; the broad face appears flat-sawn. No clear evidence of special figure.
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with darker streaks; sapwood is not clearly visible. The surface appears matte and may deepen toward a richer brown with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,410 lbf — Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has some resistance to decay and insects, but is not intended for prolonged exposure without protection.
Value & Age
Roughly US$8–18 per board foot for ordinary surfaced stock; grade, thickness, and location 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 image; the sample looks cut and lightly worn, with no distinctive patina.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, joinery, flooring, veneer, doors, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical West and Central Africa; commercially sourced across the region.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though interlocked grain can tear out during planing. Predrilling is helpful for fasteners; gluing and finishing are generally straightforward.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively and use a clear oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; a pore filler can produce a smoother high-gloss finish.
Notable Features
Often shows a ribbon stripe on quarter-sawn faces and has a distinctive, mildly spicy scent when freshly worked.
