This is a worldwide survey of wood, outlining the many types of wood and their uses, and the woodworking techniques employed around the globe. Since prehistoric times wood has provided fire, shelter, tools, weapons and all manner of implements and containers. Today, its uses are just as varied and in many cultures the tree represents the very force of life itself. With over 800 illustrations, a guide to collecting, a glossary and information on where to see collections, this is an exhaustive survey of the many and varied uses of one of our most precious natural resources.