My work required far more time than expected, but the result seems well worth the effort.
I naturally focused on the visible appearance of this beautiful piece, but not only that… To ensure the drawers slid smoothly back into place, it was necessary to restore the runners, raise the sides, and reinforce certain structural elements. These adjustments, often invisible at first glance, are nonetheless essential to the longevity of the chest.
The veneer then received my full attention: a deep cleaning, repair of the damaged areas, followed by the application of a sanding sealer to prepare the wood. Two coats of shellac mattine were applied to nourish and protect the surface, and finally, a beeswax finish brought warmth, depth, and that silky touch so characteristic of antique furniture.
At the end of this work, the chest of drawers has regained not only its elegance but also its strength and original functionality. It is now ready to begin a new life, able to endure many more years without losing any of its charm.
