Black Cherry Bowls

These bowls or trays were hand carved from a diverted chunk of Prunus serotina firewood. They are free form and approx. 6” x 17” and 2” deep. Both are smoothly finished on all surfaces and have been coated with a food safe beeswax preparation. Many hours of work were required to produce them. I love working with cherry but it is quite hard and dense, the tools need to be sharpened often. The wood darkens naturally to the color shown. Also the shavings are good for smoking meat.  Many animals eat the fruit. A few years ago I watched three bear cubs up an 80' tree enjoying a feast. I don't suppose the bowl style would be representative of any particular culture. I have not yet found reference to an Abenaki name for this container. Are they too beautiful to use except for display?

 Patrick Lamphere (Blackhand) an Abenaki artisan #65954

St. Francis/Sokoki Band Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi