Cerusing is a type of wood finishing that traces its origins to Elizabethan era skin-whitening cosmetics. Craftsmen were able to repurpose ceruse, a white lead-based pigment, to preserve wood and prevent rotting. Thankfully, modern ceruse no longer contains any trace of lead. Instead, it now uses white lime wax or diluted paint. Because of this, you may also hear this type of finishing called “limed finish.”
Cerused wood finishes were widely used in the early 1900s for Art Deco furniture and Mid-century modern interiors. In more recent times, this beautiful finishing technique is experiencing a revival, making its way back into American homes.
Read More