JL Treharn Finishes/Taste

I notice that alot of the wood pieces Duane posts seem to use the painted black poplar with tiger maple facings. It surprises me that this is so popular. The black color doesn't match anything in my house (neutral walls with white dental molding, by and large). Why is this finish so popular? Does it show off the wood finish more dramatically? Just a matter of taste (I would be the first to admit that I don't have that good of an eye yet ... it took me a while to appreciate the busy look of tiger maple)? I'm trying to learn about heritage furniture styles (thus why I like antique repros), but I haven't seen that finish on any antiques yet.

Well. What did I see on Craigslist but a black and maple kitchen hutch. Shows how much I know.

I completely understand where you're coming from...black finishes would not go with the rest of the furniture in my house...BUT I actually really like black finishes. hhmmmph. good luck!