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The end of life for trees is the beginning of Spencer Peterman’s artistry.
Spencer scours the woods near his studio in Western Massachusetts looking for fallen trees, then he turns his finds into stunning bowls that celebrate the life and death of trees. His spaulted bowls are named for the natural veining, or spaulting, that occurs when wood begins to decompose. An important part of the craft is timing. Spencer collects his moss- and dirt-covered castoffs and waits until the right time in the decomposition process to work the wood on a lathe. Then the bowls are kiln-dried at a very high temperature to sterilize and stabilize the wood.
We’re delighted to feature his spaulted maple bowls, which have natural, ragged edges, and his spaulted maple salad tossers. The handcrafted pieces look like works of art, but they’re meant to be used and enjoyed (cleanup is simple with mild soap and water). Each bowl is a one-of-a-kind creation, and we love that the wood is either found or donated. Spencer never cuts down trees, although if you have a beloved tree that has fallen, he can make it into a bowl for you. A unique and inspired gift for someone special on your holiday list.
— Ann