Old Varnish

[Anodyne]

My first post. I inherited a 1/2 gallon metal container of "Fine Hard Oak Varnish V206" made by Australian United Paint Company. It was my Grandfathers, he died nearly 50 years ago and I've had it for 30+ years. It is sealed by solder - never opened and is still liquid ie I can slosh it about. Is this considered a good finish or are modern varnishes better. i had been keeping it for potential restoration of old presumably oak furniture but I've never started. Should this be used all at once, decanted into smaller bottles or kept as a historical relic. Advice would be welcome. Anodyne

[wisno]

Just do some trial on a piece of wood panel.
See the result, if it can dry then your varnish is still in good condition.

Good luck

wisno

[ubeaut]

Think you'll find that United Paint was taken over by BALM (British Australian LEAD Manufacturers) some time around the 1920's.

This could give you an idea what sort of heavy metal driers are used in the product. It may still be good but I wouldn't be using it around anything for children, think I'd be inclined to sell it to an antique dealer. Might be worth a few dollars for the can and original label if still in tact.

Cheers - Neil

PS BALM changed it's name to Dulux in the late 60's early 70's