| Historically, luthiers have used thin films of
varnish or shellac to protect their instruments. More recently
lacquer or urethane has been employed to perform this function. Over
the years, the finish on most production guitars has become thicker
& thicker, often comprising 10% of the total thickness of the
top plate. This can have a very real damping effect on the overall
response of a guitar.
Quick drying spirit varnishes, such as French
polish, are made by dissolving shellac, sandarac or other brittle gums
in various solvents. French polish is a technique that involves wiping
on repeated applications of shellac to achieve a coating. The polish rubber
(applicator) is made up of cotton balls wrapped in linen and soaked in
an alcohol/shellac mixture. A small amount of mineral oil is applied to
the bottom of the rubber to keep it from sticking to the previously applied
finish. Through successive treatments, shellac is deposited on the surface.
Properly applied, French polish leaves a microscopic, high quality finish
that does not inhibit natural modes of vibration. Unfortunately,
the application of a French polish shellac finish is extremely time consuming
and requires years if not decades of experience.
There are very few craftsman who possess the dedication
and skill necessary to execute a professional level French polish finish.
Sergei de Jonge was at the forefront of reviving this almost lost art and
has proven that shellac not only enhances the natural beauty of exotic
figured tonewoods, but is a critical component in his personal sonic
fingerprint. |
