How to Stabilise Lifting Brass Inlay on Antique Furniture

Brass stringing and marquetry can lift when wood movement, corrosion or failed adhesive releases the metal. A raised strip catches easily and can kink or snap.

Assess the object

Photograph the pattern and inspect surrounding veneer, missing pins, corrosion products and previous glue. Determine whether the metal is brass, copper or another alloy and whether tortoiseshell or other sensitive material is present.

Photograph the condition in clear light and keep all detached fragments, screws and labels. Consider the surrounding materials as well as the obvious fault: a method safe for metal may damage wood, lacquer, shell, paint or gilding.

Conservative action

Remove the object from use and protect the raised area with a loose, non-adhesive cover. Retain detached pieces without straightening them. A conservator can relax distorted metal, clean the bedding and resecure it with a compatible adhesive under shaped cauls.

Choose the least invasive step that stabilises the object. Test materials and handling procedures before committing to treatment, and use padded supports so pressure is distributed safely.

Avoid irreversible damage

Do not hammer the strip flat, tape it down, use instant glue or polish it in place. Pressure can bruise veneer and polish residue stains adjacent wood.

Do not let speed, brightness or invisibility become the main goal. Original surfaces, construction marks and old repairs can carry historical value even when they are imperfect.

Long-term care

After treatment, keep humidity stable and avoid placing hands or objects across the inlay. Preserve a record of detached and replaced sections.

Document any intervention and review the area periodically. Stable conditions and careful use reduce the need for repeated treatment.

Seek specialist advice when

Stop if decoration is lifting, the object is rare or signed, the structure is unsafe, protected wildlife material may be present, or previous repairs make the construction unclear. A furniture, objects or relevant specialist conservator can test materials and design a reversible treatment.