Large Heart Shaped Aspen Crotch Bowl (21SF31) SOLD

This large quaking aspen crotch came from Hovland, MN, not far from Lake Superior. Photos show the trimmed crotch attached to a lathe, ready for turning. The crotch was positioned on the lathe so the region of the intersection of the two branches will be visible in the bottom of the bowl. This is the area where interesting grain figuring is expected. The top view of the bowl shows the two branch centers with their oval growth rings and the wild grain figuring between them. This figuring looks like the colorful spine of a fish, sort of a curved herringbone pattern. Such a vivid pattern is unusual and makes this large bowl really stand out. The bowl also has some spalting patterns from the start of fungal decay. The live bark edge, heart shape, stunning grain pattern, and large size gives this bowl a visually stunning appearance. The bowl was turned using handheld tools on a lathe from green wood, carefully dried under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, and sanded to 400 grit. Bowls that are turned green will warp some during drying. I like the natural effect of warping, but the bottom of the bowl must be re-turned so its base is true. The bowl was sealed with two coats of tung oil, hand sanded after each coat, and finished with a buffed thin coat of beeswax and walnut oil. This finish is considered food safe so this bowl can be used for displaying food, although it is not recommended to serve wet food since aspen is a soft wood and the bark is fragile. This bowl is unique and unusual and would make a great centerpiece for a large table. Photos of the bowl were taken with different light conditions to best show true colors. 

 

 

All my bowls are can be returned for a full refund if you are unsatisfied for any reason within 60 days. You must only pay the return shipping.

All of my bowls come with a laminated card with images of the bowl and burl, a complete description of the bowl and making process, and the artist's bio on the back side. There is no price on the card so it can be used if the bowl is given as a gift.