Replies

1. 
   CStanford_ | Feb 28, 2000 07:07pm | #1

   *
   The pat answer is not to consider refinishing a bona fide antique. Significant pieces can loose 75%+ of their value by well-meaning attempts to refinish them.

   What you have sounds like a gem to me it its current state. At most, you could consider waxing with Renaissance wax available from most reputable woodworking mail order supply stores. Most waxes will clean some of the surface grime due to their solvent content. If there is any chance of this being a piece with value, have it appraised or at least looked at by a knowledgeable dealer before even waxing it.

1. 
   David_Blake | Feb 29, 2000 05:09am | #2

   *Thanks. I'll give the Renaissance a try. And I promise to use the stripper for good and not for evil.

1. 
   CStanford_ | Feb 29, 2000 02:12pm | #3

   *David, in the world of antiques there is no such thing as the good use of a stripper. If there is any chance of this piece having real value, stripper should probably never touch it at any time. Remember, there are two kinds of stripper. One will remove the finish only, the other kind will remove the finish, the stain, the paint - virtually everything.

1. 
   CStanford_ | Feb 29, 2000 02:14pm | #4

   *I also have a feeling the piece WAS NOT fumed. I don't think the color would have worn away on a fumed piece in the manner that you have described. It must have been stained. Or that's my best guess without actually seeing the piece.