Cubistic Prosopis

The versatile Mesquite has a dark, heavy wood sometimes used for furniture.  Insects bore into the wood thus marking most lumber with cavities that require filling as part of the finishing process.  The young Mesquite shown below is typical of those planted in landscaping.

“Cubistic Prosopis” illustrates the traditional insect signature in the solid wood at the base and top opening. This wood is also famous for an aromatic smoke when burned   that gives food a popular flavor.  It is an excellent fuel source in the desert and over time has remained a major source of food and shelter for a variety of wildlife.  Indians relied on this tree for many aspects of their lives.  Beans were ground into a meal called Pinole, medicine was produced from the bark and branches, and the bark was also used to construct baskets.

Technical Vessel Information

         

Size:         52" high, 30" diameter

Weight:    68 lb.

Material:  Cubes of Mesquite, fiberglass shell, solid sections of Mesquite.

Source:     Catalina, Arizona

Construction:  A large balloon was used as the core shape, A fiberglass shell was formed over the core and wood cubes were attached to this mid-section. Resin grout fill was applied.  Solid sections of wood were then attached at top and bottom after the balloon had been removed.   The piece was then shaped and sanded to final finish.

Finish:     Danish oil was rubbed into the wood, and then all surfaces were finished with paste wax.


More detail can be found on my art at my website <www.apatchablue.com>