This is a beautiful Black Walnut root burl bowl. It has some cracks that were filled with clear epoxy and are transparent when held up to the light. It may be used to serve salads, chips, crackers, and other such items. A walnut oil finish was used to help protect the wood's character. The bowl may be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent. Wipe dry immediately. It can be re-oiled with walnut oil (found in grocery stores) or mineral oil. Do not use vegetable oils as they turn rancid in time. The Black Walnut tree was a large old orchard tree felled in Concord, California on November 2005.