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Black Walnut Bowl — 11″ Ebony & Ivory Edition

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Item 30011 — Artist: Ben Balzer

Overview

This bowl has a very interesting interplay between the heartwood and sapwood.  The outside is shaped to highlight this interplay, especially where the heartwood climbs up the grain fighting for recognition from the dominating sapwood.  As one's eye rises above the top edge of the bowl, you can see how the heartwood takes a more prominent position throughout the interior.

Why This Piece Is Exceptional

  • Purposeful grain movement — the figure flows with a natural rhythm that draws the eye across the entire surface
  • Heart-to-sapwood contrast — a sweeping boundary where ebony heartwood gives way to creamy ivory sapwood throughout the piece
  • Upright vessel form — at 4″ tall, it has depth and presence that make it unique and a joy to view
  • Refined turning — smooth walls and a consistent profile reflect hours of careful, deliberate work
  • Rich walnut palette — warm chocolate and amber tones that deepen under directional light
  • One-of-a-kind — no two pieces of walnut are alike; this grain pattern with its sapwood interplay is contained in this single piece.
  • Functional heirloom — built to be admired, displayed and handed down through the generations.

Dimensions & Details

  • Diameter: 10.7″ (27.1 cm)
  • Height: 4.0″ (10.1 cm)
  • Depth: 2.8″ (7.2 cm)
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs (674 g)
  • Item: 30011
  • Artist: Ben Balzer
  • Completion Date: 2026

Collector Notes

The upright form and rich walnut character make this bowl a natural fit for:

  • a dining table or kitchen island centerpiece
  • a console or entryway accent with real visual weight
  • a curated shelf alongside books, ceramics, or natural objects
  • a refined gift for someone who appreciates craftsmanship
  • a foundational piece in a growing wood art collection

Under warm, directional light, the ebony-to-ivory, the heartwood/ sapwood transition becomes the focal point — a natural transition that shifts in contrast as your eyes move around it.

 

Customer Impressions

Collectors consistently praise Talking Wood Studio bowls for their craftsmanship, grain beauty, and versatility. Reviews highlight their use as centerpieces, decorative accents, and heirloom gifts that grow more meaningful over time.


Based on 4 reviews
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A
Flame Maple Bowl (HF) 11"
ALEXANDER JULIAN

It’s absolutely beautiful! Expert craftsmanship, my wife loved it, we share salads from it several times a week!

H
Black Walnut 7"
Harry DeLoach
Black Walnut Bowl

Looks great on our entry table. Beautiful piece of work.

O
Flame Maple (MA) 9"
Olivia D.
Stunning centerpiece!

This bowl is exquisite and is a perfect centerpiece on the table as you enter my front door. The craftsmanship is remarkable and highlights the beauty of the grain. Love it!

S
Black Walnut 11"
Steve Love

Bought it as a Christmas gift for my wife. She adores it and is placed where everyone can see it. It has done everything from a decorative piece to candy bowl. Looks great and it's functional. Couldn't be happier with it.