Restoration of neoclassical furniture. Problem of polishing

Abstract

Antiquity is the initiator of the forms and decoration of Russian furniture of the late 18th — first quarter of the 19th century. The implementation of the principles of a Classical order in the forms of Russian furniture are an original and bright phenomenon in the history of European furniture of this period. This phenomenon has been well studied. However, the use of furniture and its change over time remains poorly investigated. Furnishings constantly require restoration interventions. However, historical technologies of its production have been insufficiently studied. This subject is relevant now in relation to large-scale restoration projects of historic furniture. Lack of knowledge about finishing materials and technologies leads to a significant change of the color and texture of wood after restoration. As a result the artistic image of the object is altered. The results obtained in this research explain the reasons of significant changes in color and appearance after modern restoration of historic furniture. Relevance of the study is based on an analysis of newly discovered archival documents. Archival materials and bibliographic sources of that time as well as laboratory studies reveal finishing technologies of the first quarter of the 19th century in Russia. Some archival materials have not been published before. Currently important stage of the polishing process is missed. Meaning of these terms is revealed in the paper. The techniques associated with the terminology are described. Key value of the natural oils and pumice stone for polishing furniture is stressed. The results of this study should form the basis of the methodology of restoration of the finishing of Neoclassical furniture. Their practical application will tend to save artistic image of historic furniture.

Keywords:

restoration, neoclassical furniture, polish, varnish, lacquer, oil, shellac, pumice