Kingwood
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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