French polish is a finish found on fine antique European furniture. It is often mistakenly referred to as a substance to be applied to wood, but in actuality is a method of applying shellac to produce a tough surface with a very glossy, mirror-like finish.

French polishing dates back before the Victorian era, but was brushed aside early in the 20th century in favor of less labor-intensive methods of finishing.

Many professional refinishers and even antique restorers don't know how to French polish, because it's so much easier to grab a brush and apply a brush on finish.

However, this "lost art" produces a luster that is next to impossible to duplicate with mass-production methods.

French polish finishes are also very easy to repair.