An exceptional early miniature burl bowl in original unfinished condition.
During the 18th c. colonists experienced and explored the beauty and strength of ash burl as a medium for daily use. Utilizing choice wood graining and orientation, the turner of this bowl carefully constructed its body of thin, lightly tapered walls of its bowl and accented the exterior with centric ring turnings. 
Below its bowl rests a delightfully turned foot with a hollowed center. The ring turning hosts pleasing characteristics such as a polished surface and colored foot from gentle use and surmounts pleasing wood grain. 
During the 19th c. a small fissure had formed prompting a delightful iron staple reinforcement. Tannens in the wood reacting with the staple produced heavy oxidation and blackening supplying a visual footprint of its age. 
Survives in overally structurally sound condition with an ideal surface, emanating 250+ years of use through oxidized color and a polished base. A sublime example of small treen which vaunts ideal traits for the advanced collector.
New England. Ca. 1780-1830. 4 1/4"W.