This is what I call a 'Lignum Vitae Wall Piece'. Even though it is an original artwork, it has a strong barroque architectural influence and Spanish 'Bargueño' ornamentation style (Southern Spain's furniture was greatly influenced by Moorish and Islamic art). It is 63" tall and 25" wide; made of solid genuine lignum vitae and the weight of the piece is 97 pounds. It took me over 1,300 hours to complete and two and a half years of part-time work. The finish is Danish Oil and dark brown wax.
Besides Lignum Vitae (Guayacán), I used another 9 different native woods for carved appliques, turned pieces and inlaid works. They are: West Indies Satinwood (Aceitillo) ...Fustic (Tachuelo) ...Ortegón ...Leadwood (Palo de hierro) ...Bulletwood (Ausubo) ...Cóbana Negra ...Caribbean princewood (Albarillo) ...Ceboruquillo ...Bay rum tree (Malagueta).
The lignum I used was air-dry for three years (some pieces 5 years). Feel free to ask any question; I will appreciate any comment. THANK YOU!!!!
Alexander Valle-Albert -
Puerto Rico
Viewer Comments:
WOW! Thats beautiful. Looks like it was fun & a lot of work.
Wholly Smokes! This piece is outstanding to say the least. You must have some serious time invested in this piece. Wonderful display of true craftsmanship. Thanks for sharing.
Now thats whole heap of detail!
It looks amazing. I was just in southern Spain last summer. Just wondering, but why did you choose lignum vitae? Ease of polishing?
That is one way to spend your free time. Incredible detail, thanks for sharing.
Steve, I have two main reasons to choose lignum vitae. First, there are a lot of lignum carving, turning works, industrial uses, etc... but, there is almost no lignum vitae's furniture. It is a pity because it is an extremely beautiful and unique wood to work with. Second, I could get it...and this task consumed as much time as to make the piece.
Oops...the last message was to JimD not Steve...sorry. However Steve, I made this piece in my free time as a kind of psychotherapy (believe me, I needed a lot!!!!).
Thats nuts. Outstanding workmanship.
Your work is abolutely fantastic ! Hope you post more pictures. You are a remarquable artist.
Have a nice day.
p.
What a work of art. I am totaly in awe of the workmanship and beauty of this piece. Very beautiful!!
As someone who deals with tons of lignum vitae your work is awe inspiring keep up the good work!
A true work of craftsmanship. I also find that woodworking is theraputic and soothes the mind. At least when the wood cooperates.
Alexander,
Your wall piece is absolutely beautiful! I was thinking about sending you a small gift that I had made with some of the wood I have purchased from you as a thank you for all your communications and help. However, after seeing your work, I think I would be embarrased to send it to you.
Quite amazing master woodworking. Your varied skills are truly exquisite. Thank you for sharing
This is Unbelievable work! Truly amazing how much detail is in every square inch of this piece! Museum quality!
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