CHAPTER XIV 



" FIGUEE " IN TIMBER 



" Figure" in Timber Timber Suitable for Carving Timber Used for 

 Veneer Markings on Timber. 



MANY theories have been propounded as to the cause of 

 " figure" in timber ; while it is true that all timber possesses 

 " figure" in some degree, which is more noticeable if it be 

 cut in certain ways, yet there are some in which it is more 

 conspicuous than in others, and which for cabinet or 

 furniture work are much appreciated, as it adds to the 

 value of the work produced. 



The characteristic figure of oak is due to the broad 

 and deep medullary rays so conspicuous in this timber, and 

 the same applies to New Zealand honeysuckle. Figure 

 due to the same cause is found in the beach and plane, but 

 is not so pronounced. The beautiful figure in " bird's eye 

 maple " is supposed to be due to the boring action of insects 

 in the early wood of the tree, causing pits or grooves, which 

 in time become filled up by being overlain by fresh layers of 

 wood ; these peculiar and unique markings are only found 

 in the older and inner portion of the tree. 



Pitch pine has sometimes a very beautiful figure, but it 

 generally does not go deep into the timber ; walnut has 

 quite a variety of figures, and so has English elm. It is 

 in mahogany, however, that we find the greatest variety of 

 figure, and as this timber is only used for furniture and 

 fancy work, a good figuring greatly enhances the value, 

 finely figured logs fetching fancy prices. 



