Michael Elkan Studio Craft— Handcrafted Burl Wood Box

A deeply personal object from one of America's most celebrated studio woodworkers. Michael Elkan worked out of his Oregon studio for decades, carving lidded boxes by hand from exceptional raw wood — and this example shows exactly why collectors seek his work with such devotion.

The box is crafted from a single piece of richly figured burl wood, exhibiting the swirling, eyes-within-eyes grain pattern that only burl can produce. What makes this piece extraordinary is Elkan's signature tension: one end of the box is left entirely raw — the live edge of the original burl bursting outward in jagged, sculptural relief — while the remaining surfaces are planed, fitted, and finished to quiet precision. The contrast between wild and controlled, natural and made, is the whole conversation.

The lid fits with a hand-carved interior lip and lifts cleanly from the body. Inside, the hollow is smooth and warm, sized generously for jewelry, keepsakes, or whatever deserves safekeeping. The bottom is branded with the "Michael Elkan Studio" mark, confirming authenticity.

This is a box that functions as sculpture. It belongs on a desk, a nightstand, or anywhere that rewards a second look.

Details

Artist: Michael Elkan
Studio: Michael Elkan Studio, Oregon
Material: Figured burl wood (species to be confirmed)
Features: Live edge end, hand-fitted lid with carved interior lip, branded signature mark
Condition: Excellent vintage condition consistent with age and studio use
One-of-a-kind handcrafted piece