Lignum Vitae is the name of two species of trees that produce extremely hard wood. The trees grow in the West Indies, Mexico, Central America and South America. They are sometimes called guayacans. The Latin words lignum vitae mean "Tree of Life". The trees were so named because resin made from their wood was used to treat rheumatism, catarrh, and skin diseases. The heartwood of lignum-vitae is the most useful part of the tree. This wood is so heavy that it sinks in water. The wood is olive-brown in color and contains an oily resin that acts as a lubricant when the wood is used for bearings. The grain of lignum-vitae interlocks and makes it practically impossible for the wood to be split. Lignum-vitae was and is used for the sheaves and blocks of pulleys and for mallets and mortars and pestles. Besides the "workhorse" uses for this strong wood, it is also used in small turned objects, such as this little covered treen spice jar/sugar bowl because of the beauty of the grain and the color contrast in the heartwood. The contrast of the random placement of light and dark creates dramatic visual effects and is much appreciated by those who love wood.
ABOUT THE SPICE JAR/SUGAR BOWL, or MASTER SALT to hold that special Maldon or Fleur de Sel on the dining table.
A great example of the wood-turners' art and skill . . . From the bottom with the step carved base to the inset top with it's hand carved original knob. Wonderful surface. . . untouched and old. Excellent original condition. They don't call it ironwood for nothing! A fabulous piece of Treen with great visual impact! Size is 2 3/4" tall, the base is 2 3/4" across and the body is 3 1/2" at the bulge.
