Masur Birch Turning
Another hollow turning made from Masur Birch also called Alpine Burl or Karelian Burl after the Finnish province of Karelia where it is often found. Masur birch is produced from wood attacked by the larvae of the Agromyzia Carbonara beetle. The high figured small brown pith flecks found in this wood is caused when the tree heals the damage done by an invasive boring beetle. The beetle infestation leaves the trees stunted and sometimes deformed but produces wood with small twists and swirls that highlight the darker, burly figure. This wood is very rare.
Woods used in this turning are Masur Birch, Amboyna Burl, Ebony, and Cocobolo.
Be sure and check my web site under bowls and platters for more pictures and examples.
Dimensions: Varies by bowl