Sunday, July 27, 2014

Roble Negro Roca













The Southwest is home to over 15 species of oak.  Classified under the Latin name "Quercus" which means beautiful tree, this mighty genus is the most important of all broad leaf trees as a source of food and shelter for wildlife.  Indians and Spanish alike, gathered the acorns from the oak to supplement their diet.  Early myths report the oak as sacred to Thor and Jupiter.  It is revered as a symbol of strength and growth as the common phrase relates, "mighty oaks from little acorns grow!"  Oaks tend to hybridize readily thus confusing their identity.  This young oak is getting a start on the rocky slopes in Oricle, Arizona.  Wood from a large, downed Emory oak found in that area was used to construct "Roble Negro Roca".  Emory oak, also known as "black" or "blackjack" oak, is characterized by its dense, dark heart wood.








Technical Information

Material:  Oak segments laminated over fiberglass shell, brass tubes embedded in top surface                        Source:    Oracle, Arizona
Finish:      Danish oil rubbed into wood, all surfaces finished with paste wax
            
More detail can be found on my art at my website <www.apatchablue.com>

 

 

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