That is a WOW design and build. I love it.
If you decide to do more steam bending, look into using a strap clamp. Lee Valley sells one but I just made my own with some metal flashing with some wood blocks screwed to it. It really helps to reduce the chances of it breaking as you bend it.
--Nathan, TX. Hire the lazy man. He may not do as much work but that's because he will find a better way.