Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modern Laminated Turned Hardwood Salad Bowl

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A beautifully crafted, large-scale turned wooden serving bowl featuring alternating, laminated horizontal bands of contrasting light and dark hardwoods. This piece showcases the clean lines and organic warmth characteristic of mid-century studio woodturning.

Story

During the post-war era, American studio woodturners elevated everyday kitchenware into functional art. This bowl's striking striped pattern was achieved by meticulously gluing contrasting wood blocks together before mounting them to a lathe.

Maker / Origin

While often unsigned or bearing simple paper labels that wear away over time, pieces like this were produced by skilled regional artisans and small-scale studios such as those in the Appalachian craft revival or Pacific Northwest woodturning communities.

Condition & Value

The bowl appears to be in good vintage condition with a rich patina. There is no obvious splitting along the lamination lines, which is the most common issue with vintage laminated wood. Regular conditioning with mineral oil will preserve its luster and prevent future drying.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.