After a few hours of cutting, gluing, re-gluing, and cleaning the surfaces, we finally reach the finishing stage. For this cartel, we chose to French polish it because it's a finish that highlights the marquetry, protects it, and is easily reversible (like all my work).
I always use a clear shellac varnish, whether on wood or other materials. The varnishing process is difficult to explain; only hours and hours of practice can reveal all the secrets of this traditional varnishing technique.
Once varnished, all that remains is to reassemble the bronzes which have been cleaned with Panama wood.
Each bronze piece is returned to its place and gives full brilliance to this cartel which will now be able to be reunited with its owner.
