Signed Burr Elm Sculptural Vessel by Dr Tim Lawson (TDL), British Studio Woodturning, Dated 2000

A remarkable signed Burr Elm sculptural vessel by British studio woodturner Dr Tim Lawson (TDL), dated 2000 (00'), where nature and craftsmanship combine to create a truly individual work of art.

Turned from an exceptional section of Burr Elm, this sculptural wooden vessel displays dramatic natural burr figuring, open grain and organic voids that make it equally suited for display as an artistic bowl, decorative vase or standalone sculptural object.

Key Features

• Signed TDL and dated '00 for British studio woodturner Dr Tim Lawson
• Contemporary British studio woodturning
• Hand turned from exceptional Burr Elm
• Organic sculptural vessel with dramatic natural burr formation
• Natural open grain, voids and burr inclusions retained as part of the design
• Beautiful feathered Burr Elm figuring throughout
• Suitable as a decorative bowl, sculptural vessel or dry display vase
• One-off artistic woodturning with no two examples ever identical
• Approximately 26cm diameter x 16cm high
• An outstanding example of contemporary British studio craft

Description

This signed Burr Elm Sculptural Vessel by Dr Tim Lawson, dated 2000 ('00), is an exceptional example of contemporary British studio woodturning, where the natural character of the timber is celebrated rather than concealed. Rather than producing a purely functional wooden bowl or vase, Lawson has created a sculptural vessel that allows the unique history of the tree to remain visible within the finished form.

Turned from an outstanding section of Burr Elm, the timber displays an extraordinary combination of swirling grain, burr eyes, feathered figuring and naturally formed open cavities. These dramatic features were created during the tree's lifetime through the unpredictable development of the burr, producing patterns and textures that can never be replicated. Every surface tells part of the tree's story, making this an entirely unique work.

One of the vessel's most captivating qualities is its natural translucency. The open grain and tiny organic pores, formed through decades of natural growth and fungal activity within the burr, allow light to gently filter through the timber. When illuminated by natural daylight or subtle directional lighting, the vessel reveals an almost glowing quality that transforms it from a beautifully turned wooden object into a remarkable study of nature itself.

Dr Tim Lawson is recognised for producing individually turned Burr wood vessels that combine technical skill with a deep respect for the material. His work has been associated with respected heritage venues including RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey and the National Trust's Polesden Lacey, where collectors have been able to appreciate his distinctive approach to British studio craftsmanship.

The gently compressed form gives the vessel a calm, balanced presence while allowing the dramatic Burr Elm figure to become the focal point. Although perfectly capable of serving as a decorative wooden bowl or dry display vase, it is perhaps best appreciated as a sculptural object in its own right, where changing light continually reveals new detail within the timber.

No two Burr Elm vessels can ever be identical. The combination of natural growth, burr formation, fungal activity and the individual decisions made during the turning process ensure that this signed example by Dr Tim Lawson remains a genuinely one-of-a-kind work of British studio woodturning.

Explore more individually crafted objects and one-of-a-kind works within our Studio Craft & Decorative Objects Collection, where natural materials and exceptional craftsmanship define every piece.

Discover the Story Behind the Craft

Interested in what makes Burr Elm so remarkable and why British studio woodturning has become so highly regarded by collectors? Our accompanying journal article explores the material, craftsmanship and enduring appeal of these unique sculptural forms.

When Nature Becomes the Designer →

Dimensions (Approx.)

Height: 16 cm

Diameter: 26 cm

Materials

• Solid Burr Elm
• Hand turned
• Fine sanded and polished finish
• Natural burr figuring
• Natural organic voids and open grain
• Signed TDL
• Dated 2000

Condition

Presented in excellent vintage condition with only light signs of age and handling consistent with a carefully preserved studio-made object. The natural voids, open grain and organic inclusions are inherent characteristics of the Burr Elm and form an intentional part of the artist's design rather than flaws or damage.

Origin / Period

Britain.

Signed by Dr Tim Lawson.

Dated 2000.

Contemporary British Studio Woodturning.

Styling Suggestions

Ideal as a sculptural centrepiece on a sideboard, console table, library cabinet or open shelving. Equally effective displayed independently as studio wood art or used as a decorative bowl or dry display vase. Positioning the vessel where natural daylight or discreet gallery lighting can illuminate the open grain beautifully reveals the remarkable depth and translucency within the Burr Elm.

FAQ

Is this a functional bowl?

While the vessel could be used decoratively as a bowl or dry vase, it was conceived primarily as a piece of collectible British studio wood art.

Who is Dr Tim Lawson?

Dr Tim Lawson is a respected British studio woodturner known for producing individually turned Burr wood vessels that celebrate the natural character and individuality of each piece of timber.

Why is every Burr Elm vessel unique?

Burr formation occurs naturally within the tree over many decades, creating grain patterns, inclusions and organic features that cannot be repeated. Every turned vessel is therefore completely individual.

Why This Object Stands Apart

• Signed by Dr Tim Lawson (TDL) and dated 2000
• Turned from a single exceptional section of British Burr Elm
• Natural burr formation, organic voids and open grain make this an entirely unique work
• Light passing through the natural pores creates a remarkable translucent effect
• Functions equally as a sculptural vessel, decorative bowl or dry display vase
• Combines contemporary British studio craftsmanship with the unpredictable artistry of nature
• No two Burr Elm vessels can ever share the same grain, burr formation or natural inclusions
• A highly collectible example of British studio woodturning