The Cloud-Map Basin

Spalted American Sycamore Serving Bowl (One of One)
Dimensions: Approximately 10 inches diameter

Hand-turned from Spalted American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), The Cloud-Map Basin came from a large Sycamore on the property of Burson Street Barnwood in Indiana. After the tree developed spalting and was harvested, much of the usable wood found other purposes. This section was among several larger pieces the owner had saved for me after I moved into lathe work.

The broad form gives the spalting room to spread across the pale Sycamore in dark, map-like zone lines. This piece was caught at a point where the wood could still become a bowl, although the spalted wood retains some natural porosity.

It works well as both a centerpiece and a functional serving bowl for relatively dry items such as fruit, bread, wrapped foods, or snacks. Because of the wood's porosity, I would not choose it for foods containing substantial liquid.

Finished with Mahoney’s walnut oil followed by a paste wax containing walnut oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax.

Care: Hand wash as needed and dry promptly. Do not soak or place in the dishwasher.