French Polishing is a technique using shellac, oil, and pumice stone. It is hand padded onto the work area using a pad of wool soaked in alcohol with a lint free cloth over it. The shellac and oil is poured into the pad in the proper amounts and applied to the surface of the furniture. After numerous coats are applied a deep brilliance and sheen is produced. Napoleon popularized the technique which was invented by the Martin brothers in France during the period of Louis XIV. It was inspired by the Oriental Lacquering technique but is not as durable. Shellac is not alcohol and water proof but it is easily restorable by a proficient craftsman and it ages very gracefully.

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