This is an beautiful Black Walnut Burl Bowl that can be used for serving salads, crackers, chips, 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. This bowl was made from a black walnut tree that fell down in July of 2007 next to a country road in Martinez, California.