Some of these storied gourds are pyro-engraved using only a small twig and a fire. That method makes the gourds even more amazing. Individuals would have to find time in a daily life that was devoid of all the conveniences we enjoy today from electricity to regular running water and nestle up near the fire to write their stories.
You may not have thought about it, but another way of pyro-engraving is branding. Many talented wood workers and turners use a brand on the bottom of their pieces – sometimes with their company name and logo and sometimes just their name. These are a lovely finish to some amazing woodwork. A brand makes a lot of sense if you consider wanting to be consistent and maintaining desired sizes.
Sometimes artists include their “signature” right into their art pieces. This is seen less in gourd work, and you have to be creative to do it. Perhaps it is too large. A good excuse for a second, smaller brand. I just use my wood burner for now but am considering a brand.