Heartwood Table

As evidenced by the many blade marks on its round top, this low, drum-like table was originally used as a chopping block in a Qing-dynasty kitchen. Shaped from a single block of walnut, the table is etched with shallow grooves in a concentric circle pattern, intended perhaps as a target for chopping accuracy. A century of use has softened the wood's raw texture and imparted a beautiful dark patina.