About Table Oak
The term oak can be used as part of the common name of any of about 400 species of trees and shrubs in the genus Quercus (from Latin "oak tree"). Oaks have spirally arranged leaves to enable maximum exposure to sunlight and the flowers produced in spring, are catkins. The fruit is called an acorn (a nut) and normally contains one seed (rarely two or three), which take 6-18 months to mature, depending on species.
Oak wood has a density of about 0.75 g/cm³, great strength and hardness. It is very resistant to insect and fungal attack because of its high tannin content and oak bark is used for tanning leather. Oak has very attractive grain markings especially when carefully sawn. Oak has been prized since the Middle Ages for the interior panelling of prestigious buildings, the construction of fine furniture and myriad other uses and qualities.
Oak was used for ship construction until the 19th century and as the principal timber used in wood-framed buildings. Barrels used to store wine, sherry, brandy and whisky are made from European and American oak. The barrels may be charred before use and contribute to the colour, taste, and aroma of the contents, imparting a desirable oak-vanilla flavour. French oaks give greater refinement and are chosen for best wines whilst American oak contributes greater texture but harsher bouquets. Oak wood chips are also used for smoking fish, meat, cheeses and other foods. Even acorns are used for making flour or roasted for acorn coffee.
The oak, because of its properties, is a recurring symbol of strength and endurance. Oak is the national tree of England and Wales and has a prominent place in mythology. For the Celts, oak is the tree of doors and believed to be a gateway between worlds. It is still prized as a portal between rooms! Furthermore the oak is sacred to the thunder gods, Thor and Zeus, and some scholars speculate that being the largest tree in northern Europe, it is the one most often struck by lightning. It has even entered out proverbs and many people are familiar with "Mighty oaks from little acorns grow." Less known but equally true is "Every majestic oak tree was once a nut who stood his ground."
Certainly your handmade table will evoke the practical prestige and richness of its primary components - fine oak and quality craftsmanship.