RESTORATIONS

General information

Treatment with oil, which penetrates deep into the surface, produces a beautiful sheen and a special intensity of grain. Shellac polishes, which have been used for surface finishing since the beginning of the 19th century, create a slight browning effect. The deeper layers of the wood allow the light to reflect and thus bring out the grain and color best. As these colorations and the oil fade and evaporate over time, it is reasonable to assume that many light-colored pieces of furniture originally had a different, more colorful appearance.

Paint removal

Old layers of paint are removed with the utmost care. The furniture is carefully washed to preserve its substance as much as possible.

Veneering

Loose veneers or wooden parts will be carefully removed and replaced with inlays of old wood or veneers from the same period, if possible, and re-glued with bone glue.

Fittings

Where available and still functional, we reuse the original fittings. Missing fittings are recast by hand either according to the existing originals or according to samples from the relevant period and place of manufacture.

Polishing

We polish by hand using traditional methods with shellac or wax.

Upholstery works

Seating furniture is made using traditional craftsmanship using sea grass, horsehair or feather cores.

Restorations - before and after

Appraisal

We will be happy to appraise your antiques at your home, provide you with a binding cost estimate and tell you the market value.