MARQUETRY RESTORATION
Carved table with marquetry featuring floral motifs
RESTORATION process
The entire surface of the table was damaged by water with color loss due to oxidation of the wood lacking surface treatment.
Fixing the loose veneer from water damage. The approximate extent of veneer loosening was 30% of the tabletop surface.
Completion of the missing parts of the marquetry.
Repeated application of acid solutions was undertaken to thoroughly remove watermarks from the surface of the tabletop. Unfortunately, the burnt circular marks on the veneers persisted even after individual applications of bleaching acid. Complete removal proved unattainable as the damage extends too deeply into the pores of the wood.
French polishing
Commencing the surface treatment using the time-honored technique known as French Polishing. Regarded as the most elegant among traditional wood finishes, French polishing gained popularity in the 1820s.
This involves the meticulous application of multiple layers of shellac by hand, followed by hand-polishing and sanding the layers with pumice powder. This meticulous procedure facilitates the gradual filling of wooden pores with shellac, and helps bring out a natural, deep shine.
