When we look at antique or period furniture with a view to re-finishing or restoring the existing finish, a degree of sensitivity is needed. If the piece is not old enough to have a developed patina and the existng finish has been ruined, we would probably recommend repolishing. However, at the other extreme an ancient period piece with even a small amount of the original finish left, would need sensitive restoration, preserving as much as possible of the original finish.

The bureau below, detail opposite, was french polished, but its original finish was ruined by subsequent over-polishing and possibly a coat of varnish. 

Very often Victorian pine furniture was painted and varnished until there was little left to appreciate. However removing all the coats of unsightly finish reveals a lovely, homely piece of furniture. We finished this table lightly with shellac and wax, which brings out the best in the colour and the texture of old pine.

 

 

 

After 2 – 3 hundred years oak furniture will have a beautiful dark gold to black colour and the finish which is made up of wax and handling becomes silky and beautiful to the touch. This is patination. However, if neglected, the finish becomes dull and impregnated with dust. A lot of the value of the piece is in the condition of the finish so it is imperative not to compromise the existing finish. We will carefully remove all dirt and restore the existing finish bringing it back to museum standard.

Mahogany and walnut furniture where the finish is still reasonable can be restored, enhancing its original patination. If the finish has gone or been destroyed, we can repolish it. It is a bigger job than most other timbers. Because of the closeness of the grain more time and skill is used to achieve the perfect finish.