English and black walnuts, aromatic cedar, Brazilian rosewood veneers – 300 hours
The interiors of the drawers are lined with Tennessee aromatic cedar, one arranged to contain photograph wallets. The brass draw handles were antiqued by wrapping them in a vinegar soaked cloth and burying them in moist, acidic soil for two weeks.
Trading endangered Brazilian rosewood is now prohibited. I bought this veneer in a liquidation sale: it was likely made in the 1920’s. This wood has long been treasured for its rich colorations and crisp, elegant figuring.
In the spirit of William Morris, this piece displays handcrafted joinery throughout. Various dovetail styles, wedged mortises and tenons and floating panels give it the structural integrity of an heirloom.
