Woodwork · Essaouira

Thuya Wood Box

Decorative boxes carved from thuya wood burl, featuring natural grain patterns and often inlaid with other woods, mother-of-pearl, or brass wire.

History & Cultural Context

Essaouira is the center of Moroccan woodworking, specializing in thuya (Tetraclinis articulata), an aromatic conifer native to North Africa. The burl wood produces stunning natural grain patterns. The tradition dates back centuries, with wood being exported across the Mediterranean.

Materials

Thuya burl woodAromatic conifer burl with distinctive swirling grain
Lemon wood / ebony inlayContrasting woods for decorative inlay patterns
Mother-of-pearlShell inlay for premium pieces

Production Techniques

Hand-turning on latheTraditional
Wood shaped on a hand-powered or foot-powered lathe
Marquetry inlayTraditional
Contrasting materials cut and fitted into channels in the wood surface

Production Notes

Burl wood is harvested, dried, and hand-turned on a lathe. Lids and bases are fitted by hand. Inlay work uses contrasting woods (lemon, ebony) or mother-of-pearl. Finished with natural beeswax polish.

Quality Indicators

Quality

Strong aromatic cedar-like scentTight-fitting lid with smooth action

Red Flags

Heavy lacquer coating obscuring grain

Price Ranges

Budget50 – 150 MAD(~$5 – $15)

Small boxes, simple shapes, no inlay

Mid-range150 – 500 MAD(~$15 – $50)

Medium boxes, good grain, basic inlay

Premium500 – 1500 MAD(~$50 – $150)

Large pieces, exceptional grain, complex marquetry

Luxury1500 – 5000 MAD(~$150 – $500)

Major pieces (chess sets, furniture items), master-level inlay