Dayglow Maple Box

I call this “Dayglow” because the grain and colors seem to shimmer. This gorgeous curly spalted maple box is an elegant repository to hold watches, bracelets, or an array of other special treasures. I cut all four sides of the box in sequence from the same plank, and thus the grain pattern follows around from surface to surface. The lid's knob, which is inset into the swept shape of the lid front, is made of purpleheart, a naturally purple species. Purpleheart feet also grace this box.

There are six individual compartments--three in the top deck and three on the box floor. The floor compartments can be reconfigured if needed by removing the dividers that separate them. Both the deck and the floor are leather-lined. The box is joined with meticulously executed 1/8" wide finger joints, and extruded solid brass hinges open and hold the lid at exactly 95 degrees. A satiny, hand-rubbed lacquer finish completes the picture.