This modern Indian table features exquisite inlay work made from various woods and faux ivory set into a background of East Indian rosewood. Changes in relative humidity caused the rosewood top to split in several places. The original shellac finish was flaking off, and several pieces of inlay were missing.
The shellac finish was removed with denatured alcohol and swabs. The splits would not close under gentle clamping pressure, so restorers filled them with a stable epoxy compound. The fill was blended to match the surrounding wood with artist’s colors, and the missing inlay pieces were replaced with wood and faux ivory. The final step was to reseal the tabletop with shellac.
