Texas Mesquite and Walnut Burl Coffee Table
Description
Artist: Robert Hawkins
Medium: Mesquite and walnut woods
Size: 39"L x 29"W x 18.5"H
I found this rare slab of figured Texas Mesquite on a recent trip. This 150+ year old slab shows insect attacks, spots of die back, and even evidence where it survived damage from a fire. It took me four straight days just to remove the loose bark, powdered wood from burrowing insects, and apply a small amount of epoxy only where necessary. Due to the natural cracks, I hand chiseled and recessed three maple bowties underneath to stabilize the slab.
The legs and apron are solid rift-sawn (tiger) black walnut. I wanted the legs to be asymmetric just like the slab, yet contemporary. Tiger figure in walnut is quite rare and although the top is the real showstopper, I wanted the legs to be as beautiful as the top. The slab is finished with 5+ coats of lacquer skillfully applied by Troy Garza of local 209th Designs right here in Tomball, Texas.
