Wood library / Exotic hardwoods

Mpingo

Mpingo · African Blackwood

A rare hardwood with a very dense, hard texture and a deep brown-black colour. Careful finishing brings out a smooth surface and a subtle lustre.

WOODWAY MAGAZINEOne of the world's heaviest and hardest woods. It has long been used for clarinets, oboes and bagpipes. Its very slow growth makes large logs scarce.

A thin band of light cream sapwood surrounds the nearly black, brown-black heartwood. This border is especially clear in cross-cut slices.

Scientific name

Dalbergia melanoxylon

Origin

East Africa

Colour

Deep brown-black

Characteristics

High density · Fine texture · Deep colour

Suggested uses

Carving · Turning · Handles · Sculptural objects

Colour, figure, knots and cracks vary even within the same species. Check photographs, condition and usable dimensions of the actual piece before ordering.