Louis XV style desk in yellow Saint Martin veneer

The restorer's trade holds many surprises. There are over 60,000 species of trees in the world. Suffice it to say that even though the same wood species are often found in French furniture, sometimes you stumble upon something completely unknown. I must say, I found this wood odd. Violet wood? No. Rosewood? Perhaps, but a variety I don't recognize. Okay, I stripped a section to reveal the wood's true color. Hey, the varnish was very red, and this veneer is actually yellow/orange, even tawny. Ouch, I don't know this wood… Well, I'll leave this piece of furniture aside for a while to search through my archives and books on wood species. And after a few days, there it was: yellow Saint Martin.

Yellow St. Martin is a species native to South America. It is found in Brazil, the sub-Amazonian region, and Guyana. Its wood is not well-suited to slicing and is rarely, if ever, used for veneer. However, I was fortunate enough to find some in solid form, which allowed me to make veneer.

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Here is an ordinary piece of furniture that derives all its charm from the rarity of its wood.

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In terms of restoration, although it may not look like it, there's quite a bit of work involved. All surfaces need to be treated to rehydrate the glue and re-glue the veneer to all surfaces. A few missing areas need to be filled, and above all, a beautiful clear varnish will enhance the wood. The leather has been preserved, and the bronze fittings have been cleaned with Panama wood.

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This piece of furniture is for sale at the Galerie Dagault – Tel – 0603490255

To see previous restorations : https://ebenisterie-mathieuvath.fr/en-ce-moment-a-latelier/