Vernis Martin

Vernis Martin japanning is a type of French lacquer work that dates back to the 1700s. It is a type of decorative finish that is used to add beauty and protection to furniture, boxes, and other items. The technique involves applying multiple layers of lacquer to the object, each layer being hand-painted with intricate designs. The lacquer is made from a combination of shellac, wax, and pigment, and is applied in a series of layers.

The process of Vernis Martin japanning involves first preparing the object for the lacquer by sanding and cleaning it. The lacquer is then applied in multiple layers, with each layer being hand-painted with intricate designs. The lacquer is then left to dry and is polished to a high gloss finish. The final result is a beautiful and durable piece of furniture or box that is sure to last for many years.

Vernis Martin japanning is a unique form of French lacquer work that was created to imitate expensive imported Chinese lacquer.

The name Vernis Martin was derived from the four brothers Guillaume, Etienne-Simon, Robert, and Julien Martin. As vernisseurs du roi (“varnishers to the king”), they operated an important lacquer workshop between 1730 and 1770.

Their name is now synonymous with European lacquer work – Japanning.