This, without a doubt is the most difficult piece of wood I've ever turned. I don't know if it was the most difficult piece when I put it on the lathe but I quickly made it the most difficult piece for sure. A few catches, lots of bark inclusions, cracks, catches, poor planning, etc. etc. all combined to just make this a difficult turn. Almost from the first cut my only goal was to just somehow, save this piece, don't blow it up. Don't ruin it.

This is a maple burl and is going to be a wedding present. It's about 12" diameter and a full 6" deep, a big bowl and it kicked my butt from start to finish.

I’d say you won the battle! Love the closed bowl design.