French Polishing: A Gleaming Controversy in Furniture Making

The Birth and Spread of French Polishing

Introduced in the waning of the 18th century, French polishing quickly became a staple in the furniture-making trade by the early 19th century. This technique involved the application of a transparent gum, or shellac, onto the surface of wood, which, through meticulous labour, bestowed a highly glazed appearance, accentuating the wood’s grain and markings. Critics, however, argued that the gum underwent polishing rather than the wood itself, sparking a debate that has persisted for centuries.

A New and Admirable Mode

The Angelo Nicholsons, in their 1836 publication The Practical Cabinet-Maker, Upholsterer, and Complete Decorator, lauded French polishing as a groundbreaking method of varnishing that reduced the need to polish the wood’s surface directly. This perspective heralded the process as a significant advancement in furniture finishing techniques.

Artistic Effect in Question

Conversely, Charles L. Eastlake’s 1872 critique in Hints on Household Taste condemned French polishing for obliterating the artistic essence of wooden furniture. Eastlake argued that this lacquering process prevented the wood from developing a rich patina over time, a characteristic highly valued in antique cabinet work. This critique highlighted a growing concern over the loss of natural beauty in pursuit of manufactured glossiness.

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The Modern Era: Automation and Controversy

Despite technological advancements that have mechanized the process in large furniture factories, the controversy surrounding French polishing lingers. It contributed to some of the Victorian era’s more regrettable furniture design elements, sacrificing durability and the wood’s natural aging process for immediate aesthetic appeal.

The Craftsmanship of French Polishing

Despite criticisms, French polishing remains a revered skill among artisans and craftsmen. This labour-intensive technique requires the application of multiple thin layers of shellac by hand, a process demanding patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the material.

Challenges and Criticisms

• Labour-Intensive Process: Achieving the signature gloss of French polishing demands significant time and effort. It involves hand-applying, levelling, and buffing numerous shellac layers.
• Delicacy and Durability: The resultant finish, while stunning, is known for its fragility. It is susceptible to damage from water, heat, and certain chemicals, raising concerns about its suitability for furniture intended for daily use.
• Skill and Experience: Mastering French polishing is no small feat. It requires practice and expertise, and common mistakes like excessive oil application can mar the finish.
• Maintenance Requirements: To maintain its lustre, a French polished surface requires periodic care, including reapplication of shellac and buffing, underscoring the commitment to preserve its beauty over time.

Despite these challenges, French polishing endures as a sought-after finish for fine furniture and musical instruments, celebrated for enhancing the natural allure of wood with a unique and breathtaking aesthetic. With proper care, a French polished piece can maintain its enchanting appearance for years, making it a testament to the enduring legacy of this controversial yet cherished technique.

Sources

Studio Dictionary of Design & Decoration. (1973). United States: Viking Press.

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