1) The reason for coating the ends was to slow drying and it also helps
reduce cracking quite a bit. Other pieces were ok because they had been
inside long enough to dry reasonably.

2) It was actually from a tree trunk and yes it was to be an end-grain
bowl. I was really pleased with it (for a day :O( )and then that split
happened.

3) BTW I also found that standing the wood vertical while it dried was
better, but I think you hit then ail on the head re the dryness because
it really didn't get much of a chance until it was brought inside. No
more wood in the shed in winter (with no heat).

I have enough to do another end-grain bowl but will wait a few months
this time.

Best

Keith P