Difference between revisions of "Kingwood"
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| − | [[File:1993.520.8-SC8982.jpg|thumb|<br>MFA# 1993.520.8]] | + | [[File:1993.520.8-SC8982.jpg|thumb|Case for tea service<br>MFA# 1993.520.8]] |
== Description == | == Description == | ||
| − | [[File:65.2504-C25964CR-d1.jpg|thumb|<br>MFA# 65.2504]] | + | [[File:65.2504-C25964CR-d1.jpg|thumb|Jewelry cabinet<br>MFA# 65.2504]] |
[[File:kingwoodwc.jpg|thumb|Kingwood (''Dalbergia cearensis'')]] | [[File:kingwoodwc.jpg|thumb|Kingwood (''Dalbergia cearensis'')]] | ||
A dark violet-brown hardwood from a Brazilian tree, ''Dalbergia cearensis''. The rare and expensive wood is figured with golden markings. Kingwood has a fine texture and polishes to a high gloss. It is used for veneer and inlaying and was popular among French cabinetmakers. | A dark violet-brown hardwood from a Brazilian tree, ''Dalbergia cearensis''. The rare and expensive wood is figured with golden markings. Kingwood has a fine texture and polishes to a high gloss. It is used for veneer and inlaying and was popular among French cabinetmakers. | ||
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* Density= 75 ppcf | * Density= 75 ppcf | ||
| − | ==Working Properties | + | ==Working Properties== |
* Tends to be difficult to work due to its high density | * Tends to be difficult to work due to its high density | ||
* Can have a moderate blunting effect on cutters, and tearout can occur during planing if interlocked grain is present | * Can have a moderate blunting effect on cutters, and tearout can occur during planing if interlocked grain is present | ||
Latest revision as of 07:14, 23 September 2022
Description
A dark violet-brown hardwood from a Brazilian tree, Dalbergia cearensis. The rare and expensive wood is figured with golden markings. Kingwood has a fine texture and polishes to a high gloss. It is used for veneer and inlaying and was popular among French cabinetmakers.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Dalbergia cearensis; bois de violette (Fr.); violeta (Port.)
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Tree height 30-60ft (10-20m)
- Heartwood is dark purplish or reddish brown with black streaks; sapwood is yellow
- Grain is usually straight; texture is fine and uniform with high natural luster
- Durability is high along with insect resistance
- Odor while working is like rosewood
- Density= 75 ppcf
Working Properties
- Tends to be difficult to work due to its high density
- Can have a moderate blunting effect on cutters, and tearout can occur during planing if interlocked grain is present
- Can be difficult to glue due to natural oils and high density
- Turns very well and takes a high polish
Resources and Citations
- The Wood Database: Kingwood
- Ralph Mayer, A Dictionary of Art Terms and Techniques, Harper and Row Publishers, New York, 1969 (also 1945 printing)
- George Savage, Art and Antique Restorer's Handbook, Rockliff Publishing Corp, London, 1954