Reply by shipwright

+1 bilyo.
You might check a small area out of sight with a little alcohol. If it is a shellac finish which is likely if it hasn’t been messed with over the years, it can be re-polished without damaging the patina. That said if you don’t understand shellac and French polish, I revert to +1 bilyo.

Oh yes, if there is any gluing required, absolutely hide glue.

-- Paul M ..............the early bird may get the worm but it’s the second mouse that gets the cheese! http://thecanadianschooloffrenchmarquetry.com/