Fireworkscame about because I thought that I could make something this big (it is 17 1/2" in diameter and 14" deep) without using special jigs on the lathe.
When I had the sticks squared and laminated I had second thoughts. The blank sat in the studio for several years before I got tired of moving it and decided to complete the project.
Aspen is a soft wood and easy to work. However, it is not strong and does not easily forgive when one does stupid things to it.
The wood and I were in harmony when this piece was finally finished.