Bocote

The Material Archive

Also known as Mexican Rosewood, this wood releases a distinctive aroma when worked—reminiscent of brine—such a singular trait that artisans can identify it blind. Its grain pattern is among the most dramatic in the plant kingdom: deep, almost black streaks over a golden base, sometimes forming striking “eye-like” figures within the figure of the wood. Dense, naturally oily, and capable of achieving a high natural gloss without any additional treatment, it embodies both visual intensity and material richness.