A carved figure's wood named from colour alone

If an inventory names a carved figure's wood from its dark colour and smell, verification may be needed. Coating hides the surface and exposed end grain is small. Plan around preservation and accessible anatomy rather than a trade name.

What needs to be clarified

Determine the achievable taxonomic level and compare anatomical features with the stated name, without inferring geographic origin.

Materials to prepare

Protected, complete figure with accessible base
Inventory and photographs stating the material name
Coating information and agreed small-sample conditions

What to compare

Examine end grain and coating effects. If permitted, prepare sections in relevant orientations and describe vessels, rays and parenchyma. Compare reference collections, recording closely related groups that sample size and condition cannot separate without further work.

Possible outcome of the analysis

An illustrated description may justify identification only to genus or a broader group rather than an exact species.

Limits of the conclusions

Colour and smell do not confirm species. Anatomy alone establishes neither harvest country, object age nor lawful acquisition or movement.