Refininshing an old piece

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James

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I build reproduction historical furniture and thus, always start with new materials.  However, I couldn't say no when a guy recently asked if I would consider refinishing what appears to be about a c. 1750 low boy that was already refinished sometime in the 20th century.

It appears to have been covered with orange shellac (which does come off easily based on a Q-tip trial).  However, I am unsure what's under the shellac.  Based on some darker finish on the bottom side of the knees, it looks like the exposed parts may have been stripped/sanded in the previous refinishing.  It's general color is that of orange shellac.  I think the cherry carcass, top, and drawers would have a darker appearance if they had some of their original finish under the shellac.

When the shellac is removed, I would be afraid that dye (aniline or NGR) would not penetrate or at least evenly penetrate previously finished wood.  Thus, when I remove the shellac, what can I use to give this piece an authentically aged appearance?  I am assuming I would top coat it with an alkyd varnish or an oil/varnish combination.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks.

James
 
Check with a restorer or dealer of antiques to find out how to restore some of the value to the piece. I wouldn't do anything that isn't reversible
Mike
 
Can you post a picture of this piece?  It is a lot easier to give advice seeing it but without a pic I would suggest to try to re-amalgamate the shellac.  CLean the piece first.  You do not have to remove the finish to change the color.  THe only finish that should be on it is shellac.  DO NOT use that oil stuff......If it is linseed based it will eventually get very dark.. this is over a long period...  If you need to change the color add your NGR to your shellac.  With a good pic, I could probably suggest more.
   
 
One other suggestion-  Stay away from dealers.  95% of them have NO CLUE what goes into fixing/finishing these pieces.  All of those pieces in Magazine Antiques and Antiques and Fine Art are all original right?  A restorer is going to give you different advice than a conservator. 
 
I would agree that many dealers don't know how to repair or refinish antiques but they do know what they need to look like to get the most value for a piece. Just go to good antique shops and look at the good stuff. Make yours look like that. I agree that the alkyd varnish is a bad idea. If you feel you must use it put it on over a good coat of shellac to keep it off the wood.
Mike
 
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