Ric Larson Turned Birch Burl Hollow Form Vessel, 2010 — Signed

Hand-turned hollow form by Ric Larson, a Las Cruces–based studio woodturner known for coaxing monumental sculptural presence from New Mexico and regional hardwoods. Dated 2010 and titled "Birch Burl" in the artist's hand on the base, this oblate ovoid vessel embodies Larson's signature approach: allowing the raw character of the burl — swirling figure, scattered eyes, dramatic bark inclusions preserved as open natural voids — to animate the form rather than be refined away. The surface carries a warm honey-gold finish that deepens into amber and sienna at the inclusions, and the proportions, wide and low with a deliberately small circular aperture at the crown, read more as sculpture than vessel.

The underside bears a personal dedication. Larson has exhibited throughout the region and is represented in local collections; signed, dated, and dedicated examples such as this are less commonly encountered on the secondary market.

CONDITION

Very Good overall; the surface is smooth and the finish is even across the exterior. Natural bark inclusions, open voids, and hairline grain checks visible on the top face and shoulder are inherent to the burl material and intentional to the design — not condition flaws. No cracks, repairs, or losses beyond what the turner deliberately incorporated.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Height: 4"
• Diameter: 8½"
• Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz
• Material: Birch burl
• Artist: Ric Larson
• Date: 2010
• Title: "Birch Burl" (inscribed by artist)
• Dedication inscribed on underside
• Signed, dated, titled, and dedicated on base
• Campbell's Soup Can (4" H) Shown for Scale