The “art of Japan”, a western imitation of Eastern lacquer, was fashionable in several periods between the 17th and 19th centuries. Examples vary from the charming naïve decoration of small workshops to the highly sophisticated and skilled craftsmanship of commissioned furniture suites. As a result, recipes used differ widely.

Following tests to establish the materials used, discoloured and degraded shellac or varnishes are gently cleaned. Cracks and missing ground are filled with gesso and lost raised work applied and shaped. Japanning is touched in, using traditional pigments such as vermillion, lamp black or smalt etc., mixed with shellac. Lost decorative designs are put back with gold leaf or shell gold and toned to match the original so that the character of the piece remains. Careful ink work replaces features and blends seamlessly with existing lines. Mounts and metal work are cleaned and recoloured as necessary. A final coat of wax protects and polishes the whole.

The finished effect will bring out the warm glow of antique japanning with a “readable” design, while retaining its aged charm.