Finish suggestions

Nice work! Did you make it from plans? The wrong finish can diminish the value also. I'd go natural and let it build a patina. Anything else is too risky IMO.

I compared several plans, took measurements from store bought versions, and developed custom measurements to fit my needs. The wood was specially selected to accentuate the form.

I missed the pointy stick thing, and really felt left out.

Thanks for the kind words, Barry

I think I would like to have a little of the time that you obviously have an abundance of

I'd put some paint on it!

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I see this as a perfect candidate for a premium David Marks finish. As I recall, he starts with a sealer, then a few partially overlapping color coats, than some textured gilding, followed by application of caustic agents, then brushing and scraping, and finally a couple clear top coats for protection. I understand a complete finish can take weeks or months to complete...

Gilding...

I never thought of that.

Barry

But to protect the beauty of the gilding, you will want to cover it with a thick coat of flat white latex. Don't use the eggshell colors as it will dissolve the gold.

I was gonna suggest chrome plating but gilding might be even classier. j4

Yeah... I think we've got a winner!

Gilding may be a little classier, but if you go with chrome, you could wire that sumbitch for 220.

Anyone have an opinion on that?

I can't believe some of the cretins who've given you advice on this. Anything less than a coat of BLO followed by French polishing with the finest Paddylac Superblonde would be an insult to a piece like that.

I'm surprised they didn't just tell you to slather some fruitwood stain on it and cover it in poly or even *gasp* PAINT the thing.

Chuck Vance (oh the humanity)