Trade Names
Figured Anegre
Similar woods
Figured Maple
Origin
West Africa
Range
West and East Africa from Guinea through Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and the Congo to Angola, eastwards to Zaire and Uganda, in tropical rain forests. Figured wood seldom occurs and thus is extremely difficult to obtain.
Uses
For high quality architectural purposes, especially in the USA, Australia and Southeast Asia. Also used for musical instruments. Still used on a small scale in Europe.
Properties
The figuring of Anegre is very pronounced and beautiful. As a result the veneers are extremely decorative, especially in conjunction with the silky luster and when the figuring occurs at a 90° angle.
Machining
There is no great problem to working this wood but tools become quickly dull due to the silicate deposits.
Seasoning
There is no great difficulty in drying cut lumber. The wood should be dried as soon as possible after cutting to prevent blue stain.
Finishing
Surface treatment is possible by all the usual methods but white patches can appear on the surface as a result of calcium deposits.
Jointing
Gluing presents no problem. Nail and screw joints should be pre-drilled to prevent splitting.