These burnt wood sprocket bowls are real conversation pieces and will last a lifetime thanks to a technique that renders them not only waterproof but fire retardant, lacking the oils needed to ignite a flame.
Based in Chicago, artisan Christian Nyberg says he's been working with wood "as long as I can remember". His burnt wood pieces follow in the tradition of the Japanese art of Shou Sugi Ban, a striking method to preserve wood that became popular in 18th-century Japan for exterior use. Today, this ancient art is practiced using many different types of wood for decor items and furniture.
