Is japanning durable?

When the work is done well, a japanned piece can be extremely durable, and one could almost consider japanned goods as an early form of plastic. The enamel could be polished to a high sheen, and it was often quite impact resistant, although it would eventually crack or wear away with hard use.

What is Japanese black paint?

Japan black (also called black japan) is a lacquer or varnish suitable for many substrates but known especially for its use on iron and steel. It is so named due to the history of black lacquer being associated in the West with products from Japan.

How do I get rid of old japanning?

Soak the parts overnight in the lacquer thinner then scrape off the loose and softened japanning. When done with some care these methods will not harm the cast iron. After removing the old japanning the parts should be cleaned with turpentine, then wiped down with acetone just prior to application of japanning.

Why is it called japanning?

Oriental lacquer objects were first imported into Europe in the late sixteenth century. Imitations of lacquer and other decorative surfaces by European craftsmen using their own materials and techniques were known as ‘japanning’.

When was japanning popular?

japanning, in the decorative arts, process popular in 18th-century Europe for finishing and ornamenting wood, leather, tin, and papier-mâché in imitation of the celebrated lacquerwork of the Japanese.

What is a japanning finish?

Japanning is a type of finish that originated as a European imitation of East Asian lacquerwork. The European technique uses varnishes that have a resin base, similar to shellac, applied in heat-dried layers which are then polished, to give a smooth glossy finish. It can also come in reds, greens and blues.

What is a Japanning finish?

What is the process of Japanning?

Japanning is a process by which Europeans treated and decorated antique furniture with lacquer and resin, in order to imitate various styles found across the Asian continent.

What is Japanning on metal?

Japanning is a type of finish that originated as a European imitation of East Asian lacquerwork. It was first used on furniture, but was later much used on small items in metal. The word originated in the 17th century. Japanning is most often a heavy black “lacquer”, almost like enamel paint.

What is japanning used for?

Does japanned metal rust?

Ironware was often japanned black for decorative reasons, and to also render it rustproof and therefore suitable for carrying water.