Bubinga Bowl Blank BUBB03 — 255 × 75mm | John Boddy Stock

Bubinga (Guibourtia spp.)

Bubinga is a genuine old-school turning timber — deep reddish-brown heartwood shot through with dramatic purple veining and interlocked figure, producing bowls of extraordinary visual depth and presence. Heavy, dense, and immensely satisfying to turn, it rewards the skilled hand with a surface that seems almost to glow.

At 75mm thick, this blank is genuinely exceptional. Thick Bubinga is among the hardest stock to source anywhere in the UK today — export restrictions and dwindling old-growth supply mean that blanks at this depth simply don't come to market often. This piece comes from the late John Boddy's personal collection, representing old-growth material of a quality that is increasingly impossible to replace.

If you've been waiting for a blank with enough depth for a serious deep bowl or a substantial natural-edge form, this is it.

Species Details

• Species: Guibourtia spp.
• Common Name: Bubinga
• Origin: Central / West Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Congo)
• Colour: Deep reddish-brown with purple veining; rich interlocked figure
• Janka Hardness: ~2,690 lbf (~11,970 N)
• Density: ~880 kg/m³
• Durability: Very durable — Class 1–2
• Workability: Demanding but rewarding — sharp tools essential. Takes an outstanding finish.

This Blank

• SKU: BUBB03
• Diameter: 255mm
• Thickness: 75mm (3")
• Weight: 3.9kg
• Provenance: John Boddy's stock
• Photos: Images show the actual blank you will receive

Thick Bubinga from a legendary source. These don't come around again.