The Restoration of Museum-Quality Russian Commodes from the 18th to Early 19th Century

Russian Commode Masion Felice

These are the procedures in the correct order to restore these pieces

From Russia during the late 18th to early 19th century, this style of commode features a mahogany wood veneer, the commodes are embellished with gilt-bronze mounts, which are decorative metal pieces that are cast in bronze and then finished with a gold gilding. This technique was particularly popular during the Neoclassical period, these commodes were affected by the elements of time, they were infected with woodworms or wood boring beetles like numerous pieces are from history, I was able to restore them for Maison Felice of the Phyllis Washington collection located at 73960 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA 92260 USA.

The art of restoration is crucial in keeping historical artifacts alive for future generations. The restoration of the Russian commode started with a thorough examination of the antique piece. This article will take you through the journey of restoring a rare and priceless piece of history.

Once the commode restoration was complete, it was clear that it was a work of art. It had regained its former glory, with no sign of damage. It was now a museum-quality piece, retaining its original appearance and generating the same sense of awe it did when it was first created centuries ago.

There was extensive woodworm damage as well as cracked and split sides and tops mostly from acclimation where the wood dries out in dry climate areas such as deserts and in the winter it is much drier then in the summer here in the desert. Next, I carefully examined the 2 commodes and injected every worm hole with wood harder and the splits or cracks also, I then epoxy filled the inside cracks and glued and used the drawer guides and glued them as well as they were loose ,also to flatten out and level the sides and tops and used some leveling flat straight pieces of waxed hardwood on the exterior surfaces to ensure all the sides and tops were glued flat and even, I then mixed my epoxy with powdered colors to help match the wood color for easier touchup and filled all the cracks, splits and worm holes with the colored epoxy and  leveled it flat and even. I then cleaned and de-waxed the finish and then touched up where needed. Then I french polished the finish to its original luster bringing them back to their original state and restore their important history in time.

Whether you need us to restore a heirloom or refresh your favorite furniture – we are here to help! Contact us now to preserve and restore your treasured items.

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