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A deeply personal object from one of America's most celebrated studio woodworkers. Michael Elkan worked out of his Oregon studio for decades, carving lidded boxes by hand from exceptional raw wood — and this example shows exactly why collectors seek his work with such devotion.
The box is crafted from a single piece of richly figured burl wood, exhibiting the swirling, eyes-within-eyes grain pattern that only burl can produce. What makes this piece extraordinary is Elkan's signature tension: one end of the box is left entirely raw — the live edge of the original burl bursting outward in jagged, sculptural relief — while the remaining surfaces are planed, fitted, and finished to quiet precision. The contrast between wild and controlled, natural and made, is the whole conversation.
The lid fits with a hand-carved interior lip and lifts cleanly from the body. Inside, the hollow is smooth and warm, sized generously for jewelry, keepsakes, or whatever deserves safekeeping. The bottom is branded with the "Michael Elkan Studio" mark, confirming authenticity.
This is a box that functions as sculpture. It belongs on a desk, a nightstand, or anywhere that rewards a second look.
Details
- Artist: Michael Elkan
- Studio: Michael Elkan Studio, Oregon
- Material: Figured burl wood (species to be confirmed)
- Features: Live edge end, hand-fitted lid with carved interior lip, branded signature mark
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition consistent with age and studio use
- One-of-a-kind handcrafted piece
A deeply personal object from one of America's most celebrated studio woodworkers. Michael Elkan worked out of his Oregon studio for decades, carving lidded boxes by hand from exceptional raw wood — and this example shows exactly why collectors seek his work with such devotion.
The box is crafted from a single piece of richly figured burl wood, exhibiting the swirling, eyes-within-eyes grain pattern that only burl can produce. What makes this piece extraordinary is Elkan's signature tension: one end of the box is left entirely raw — the live edge of the original burl bursting outward in jagged, sculptural relief — while the remaining surfaces are planed, fitted, and finished to quiet precision. The contrast between wild and controlled, natural and made, is the whole conversation.
The lid fits with a hand-carved interior lip and lifts cleanly from the body. Inside, the hollow is smooth and warm, sized generously for jewelry, keepsakes, or whatever deserves safekeeping. The bottom is branded with the "Michael Elkan Studio" mark, confirming authenticity.
This is a box that functions as sculpture. It belongs on a desk, a nightstand, or anywhere that rewards a second look.
Details
- Artist: Michael Elkan
- Studio: Michael Elkan Studio, Oregon
- Material: Figured burl wood (species to be confirmed)
- Features: Live edge end, hand-fitted lid with carved interior lip, branded signature mark
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition consistent with age and studio use
- One-of-a-kind handcrafted piece
See why our clients trust Hobbs Modern:
Wood Care
Keep the furniture in a cool, dry place
Avoid furniture's direct exposure to rain, sun or wind
Avoid placing hot objects directly on the piece to prevent undesirable marks or permanent circles.
Avoid placing objects that may cause scratches to the surface
Clean using water only in small quantities and apply it with soft, damp cloth
After damp cloth wipe with a soft, dry cloth
You can use other liquids that are especially for cleaning wood furniture. Take into account the type of wood and follow the manufacturer's instructions
Upholstery Care
Do not expose directly to sunlight to provide greater durability colors
Exchange both side pads, the seat and backrest, to obtain uniform wear
Shake the cushions regularly to remove dust and to maintain the stability of the form
Clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner in good condition
Use a textile fabric cleaning substance according to and following the manufacturer's instructions
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