Dating back thousands of years, Marquetry is the art of using thin veneers or layers of materials like hardwood, shell, ivory, or even precious and non-precious metals such as metals and glass to create patterns and designs on objects like furniture. Various pieces are cut and fit together to form a very decorative flat surface image using precise knife techniques that require time and attention to detail.
The artwork is improved by sanding the piece with abrasive paper backed by a sanding block. After which, either ordinary or special varnishes, oil, water-based wax or special polishing techniques are used to seal and perfect the piece.