Date: 7 - 9 November
Time: 1 - 5pm
Location: Poltrona Frau Stand D09, Downtown Design on the d3 Waterfront Terrace, Dubai Design District (d3)
At this year’s Downtown Design, visitors have the opportunity to experience an ancient craft: shellac finishing. A live demonstration taking place within the Poltrona Frau space in the fair will showcase shellac finishing technique; an ancient and rigorous wood-finishing technique that honours craftmanship and high quality design. The meticulous and highly skilled process of applying shellac, a natural wood finish that brings out the true beauty of wood grain and texture.
Also referred to as French polishing, shellac finishing originated in 18th-century France and is renowned for its lustrous, mirror-like finish that enhances the depth and color of wood. The process involves applying multiple, thin coats of shellac—a resin secreted by the female lac beetle in India and Thailand—dissolved in alcohol. Crafted in dry flakes, this natural resin requires great care to transform into a rich, transparent layer that deepens the wood’s hue while providing a resilient finish.
The application of shellac demands patience and skill, with artisans using special rubbing motions, such as circular and figure-eight strokes, to layer the shellac while removing any streaks. This repetitive, almost meditative process can take hours and requires precision in technique, timing, and pressure, revealing the artisan’s expertise and dedication to high-quality craftsmanship. Shellac finishing is especially valued by designers and collectors, as it brings a timeless warmth and depth to furniture, marrying form and function in every piece.
Join Ceccotti Collezioni and Poltrona Frau at stand D09 in Downtown Design, d3 Waterfront Terrace, Dubai Design District (d3) from 7-9 November to watch skilled artisans bring this historical technique to life, blending tradition with high-quality design.