A Maple Worth a Fortune: The Artistry of Walter Pall

In 1993, Walter first saw a neglected Japanese maple in Switzerland, originally imported from Japan in the 1980s. Despite its brittle branches, weak apex, and poor care, the tree captivated him with its potential.

The pot was too small, the trunks straight, and an unsightly knob marred the main trunk. Walter took on the challenge of transforming this bonsai, believing its flaws could be overshadowed by a compelling aura that would make imperfections invisible. Years of careful work reshaped the tree, incorporating some natural "flaws" to create a unique aesthetic.

The tree’s photographs are widely cherished, and today, it’s one of Europe's most admired bonsai, admired for its elegance and challenging traditional bonsai norms.