> > Nonwithstanding the above, an earlier email mentions that David Van > Edwards suggests using oil on bellies and, since he is widely recognised > as being > one of the finest lute makers around today, you may also care > to reflect on this advice.. > > Linseed Oil has an ancient history of widespread use in painting, wood > finishing and varnishes (including instrument varnishes) and was readily > available to the Old Ones. Linseed oil has no ancient history in painting. It was first used as a painting medium in Flanders by VanEyk in the 1400's, and brought into Italy by his student Antonello da Messina. The ancients already new that it had PH detrimental to fiber and required gelatin sealant barrier. RT
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