FURNITURE RESTORATION CASE STUDY
Heirloom Mahogany Desk
A much loved treasure
The client’s mother had recently passed away and the client was keen to have it restored and put back into daily use.
The damage was quite extensive but essentially cosmetic, although it had to be approached with real care.
Structurally sound
After making some repairs to how the top was held to the casement, the stability of the desk was greatly improved.
The next challenge was to restore the feather banding inlay that decorated all the drawer fronts.
Conservation and restoration
Much of the existing inlay was reglued into place to prevent future deterioration.
Missing inlay was either replaced with new or where impossible filled and pigmented to match the original.
Repairing sun damage
The front of the desk was suffering from severe sun damage, no doubt the result of sitting to near a south facing window.
To revive, the French polish finish had to removed, the wood revived and new coats of shellac applied.
Removing marks and stains
Much of the polish on the top had to removed. Then a special proprietary solution applied which lifted much of the staining but didn’t damage the mahogany.
Once again, new coats of french polish were gradually built up until the desired finish was achieved.
Keeping it in the family
To finish, several coats of antique mahogany wax were applied and buffed to a sheen. The original brass handles were cleaned and refitted.
The client was so pleased with the result she gifted the desk to her daughter and it remains in the family.