This is the fifth dish of twelve, and the first from three phenomenal slabs purchased at a local sawmill. The characteristics and chatoyance that make this sapele such a standout also make it extremely difficult to turn and finish, and as such I will be making them available only occasionally, or upon request. The grain is twisted, curled, and interlocked due to stress on certain parts of the tree, which leads to the eye-popping chatoyance in these pieces.
Sapele is an extremely dense and hard timber from Africa, also known as sapele mahogany. It is very durable, insect resistant, and moisture resistant. Twice as hard and rot resistant as genuine mahogany, it is often used as a substitute because of its greater availability. The trees grow very large, reaching 6' in diameter and > 100' tall.
This piece is heavy and stable, and is finished with a food safe blend of mineral oil and beeswax, but honestly this one is best as a display piece to admire the shimmer and rippling bands of light reflected back.
