Hello Dave,
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I have been seeking information on different woods used in Ethnographic weapons. How to identify the wood is a top priority.
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Been there, still keep struggling - prepare for an uphill battle...
Not being able to take standard samples for analysis makes for a tough start. Small size of pieces and intricate carving doesn't help either!
Also keep in mind that some of the utilized wood is not commercially available (except locally if at all) and selected pieces are often burl, stunted growth, fungal infections, etc. rather than typical heartwood.
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I'm also interested in why certain woods are used, whether it is for physical properties of the wood, workability, beauty, magical thinking, or some other reason.
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You definitely want to read "Spirit of Wood. The Art of Malay Woodcarving" by Farish Noor and Eddin Khoo (Periplus 2003)! It's been out of print for a while - many larger public libraries have a copy though.
I'd love to hear from similar treatises from other parts of the world!
Regards,
Kai