Dynamic Quilted Maple Bowl

This hand-turned bowl is crafted from a Large Leaf Quilted Maple burl, native to the Pacific Northwest. The original burl—measuring 3.5 feet by 2.5 feet and weighing 44 pounds—was purchased from Hearne Hardwoods in Oxford, New York.
After cutting the blank, I spent weeks considering whether to feature the tree’s naturally flat interior as the exterior surface, or to showcase the burl’s richly textured, highly figured face. I ultimately chose to highlight the dramatic natural exterior.
Sharp spikes, deep grooves, bark inclusions, and even a small natural opening define its outer form.  The interior reveals swirling reddish-tan grain while the top edge transitions from soft off-white into tan tones, resembling marble.  This sculptural piece is a one-of-a-kind display work suited for any setting.