About

At Emanuel Lopes Studio we creates handcrafted wooden mirrors and restores wooden pieces using traditional French polishing techniques with natural shellac.

French polishing is a meticulous hand-applied finishing process that has been used for generations on fine furniture and pianos. Rather than sealing the surface with a thick synthetic layer, this technique builds up many delicate layers of shellac by hand, allowing the natural character of the wood to remain visible and alive.

The result is a finish with depth, warmth, and a soft luminosity that changes with the light. It is not a plastic surface, but one that retains the richness, texture, and individuality of the material.

Each piece is made with careful attention to proportion, surface, and detail — created not only to be seen, but also to be experienced through touch.

In addition to original mirrors, restoration, refinishing, and bespoke commissions are also available.