Heritage Series : Production no. 1

This piece was inspired by my grandfather and the design is dedicated to his memory. The primary woods are Western Big Leaf Maple and Cuban Mahogany. It is accented by Black Walnut and American Cherry, trimmed in Wenge with Rosewood legs. I inherited the mahogany from my grandfathers shop after his passing. Cuban Mahogany is very rare and a very prized wood. I remember these pieces from my younger years and often asked him what he was saving them for. His answer was always something special and he would know it when the time was right. After his passing I held onto the boards, knowing that I dare not use them for anything that he wouldn't approve of. The very first pieces I took from these boards were to produce my first box, made for my wife on our first Christmas. After that production, the pieces remained squirreled away for another 7 years. When the inspiration hit for this piece I knew that my grandfathers mahogany would take it to the next level. I also knew that I had the perfect gift for my mother; a piece inspired by her father and produced from his special wood.

The top is beveled and smoothed by approximately 2" in order to lighten the edge. The sides were coved and shaped to flow into the carved and lightened Rosewood legs. We used quality 95* Brusso stop hinges on this piece.

I had a desire to show case the beauty of the Big Leaf Maple in a way that drew the eye in and tempts the viewer to touch its surface. I also chose the Maple due to his darker coloring and streaks of browns and blacks that would mingle with the deep reddish brown of the aged mahogany. The interior is lined with deer suede leather and contains a 3" x 6" oval mirror. The dividers and lift out tray are made from 1/8" mahogany strips, giving a variety of storage options. It is finished with multiple coats of Sam Maloof's Poly/Oil finish and topped with several coats of Sam Maloof's Oil/Wax, polished to a satin finish that begs to be touched. The piece is approximately 9" wide by 8" deep by 4" tall.

This piece currently resides in Saint George, Utah.