Whitened White Ash bowl

Beautiful but something needs to go over the shellac to protect it, IMO, especially if the bowl is used.

Wow, what a magnificent shape. There was a discussion on WOW not long ago about pursuit of the perfect bowl. Maybe this is it.

@Alan Weinberg Thanks for that input, which is kind of my thinking too. I gave it a coat of renaissance wax last evening. Not protective for food service, but hope it’ll hold up to handling and other light duties.
The project was getting long- I made an end to it!

@David Bartell Well, that’s just the nicest, kindest comment ever. Thank you!

Beautiful piece, and nicely photographed, too.

Beautiful curve and pretty to leave as light as possible too. Nice!

Beautiful form, bleached finish, and photo. Doesn't get any better than this, Marc. What is that dark mark on the rim (LH side) .... doesn't look like a shadow? Have you ever tried any of the Krylon spray products? They don't add any color but will add protection and can be scuffed, buffed, etc. Downside - the odor really bothers me.

@Tom Gall Thanks for your kind comment. That is indeed a shadow line. The rim is quite white.
I haven’t tried any of these, but will investigate soon.

Acrylic lacquer is the only finish that won't yellow with age, but the wood will still darken over time with exposure to UV light. However, any amount of gloss in a finish will make the wood appear darker because light scattering is reduced. I would be tempted to try a wash coat of titanium white artist acrylic as a pickling stain and then flat acrylic lacquer as a protective topcoat.