SOLD REMNANT EDITION 4, 002

Elm, SHo Sugi Ban, Walnut oil. 3.5 x 7 in.The ellipsoidal shape of this piece is created as the wood dries. It elongates in the direction the tree grows. The drying process is an art in and of itself. It begins with the completed shape stored in its shavings for three months, and then it's moved to a cool, dry interior space where it finishes curing for an additional three months. Finally, the piece was sanded, burned, and oiled. The undercutting technique gives this piece an elegant appearance, but this is a sturdy piece, and it feels weighty in hand.  This Chinese Elm was salvaged from a tree that was felled eight months ago, not far from my home in Pasadena.