Vernis Martin

Vernis Martin – is a substitute for lustrous lacquer. It was used widely in the 18th century to decorate clocks, snuff boxes and brise fans.

It was made by adding bronze or gold powder to green varnish to create the effect and the technique was perfected by the two French ‘Martin’ brothers hence the name ‘vernis martin’ or in English ‘Martin varnish’.

It was originally developed to imitate East Asian lacquerware which was popular during the reign of Louis XV and the effect was so successful it was highly praised by Voltaire. It was made in several colours with green. black and a golden red being the most popular.