TESTIMONIAL:
Rachael's understanding of the need for perfection and the finest quality was second to none.
I cannot quite put into words how delighted we were with the finished tables. The quoted lead time was spot on and all dialogue with Rachael was a real pleasure…As a company fully committed to excellence, we cannot recommend Rachael highly enough.
Excellence is still alive !!!!!
My very best wishes
Jonathan Sainsbury
Rachael's understanding of the need for perfection and the finest quality was second to none.
I cannot quite put into words how delighted we were with the finished tables. The quoted lead time was spot on and all dialogue with Rachael was a real pleasure…As a company fully committed to excellence, we cannot recommend Rachael highly enough.
Excellence is still alive !!!!!
My very best wishes
Jonathan Sainsbury
Fluted Moongold Cabinet
Water gilding and lightly aging the decorative beading on this magnificent table.
Spray gesso and bole, water-gilded with 23.3ct gold, burnished then aged & toned.
Spray gesso and bole, water-gilded with 23.3ct gold, burnished then aged & toned.
Gilding Restall Brown and Clennell furniture 2013-2015 until the factory sadly closed.
Japan Chinoiserie Cabinet Restoration
This restoration involved a Japanned Chinoiserie cabinet made using Western-style lacquer, not traditional Urushi. I always aim to use materials as close as possible to the originals, so I developed a method to repair the aged, cracked surface while preserving the genuine raised gesso gilding.
The aged lacquer was first consolidated with conservation grade glue, then carefully cleaned. Missing areas were filled using shellac and black bole, shaped with minimal sanding, and the green lacquer was carefully colour-matched using a pigmented wax filler and other conservation techniques. The finished restoration was a seamless, near-invisible repair.
The lacquer was revived using pigmented powders blended with oil, then hand-buffed to restore its original sheen. Gold leaf and powders integrated with the existing gilded raised gesso chinoiserie details. The final step involved a full buff and finish to unify the appearance and bring the cabinet back to life, while preserving its unique character and age.
