Raised carving on sideboard door

[tcandkk]

We just purchased a sideboard, not sure how old it is. My husband hasn't finished cleaning it yet, but it appears to be a walnut burl wood.

There are 3 drawers that are flanked by two doors. Each door has a raised carving on it. We are not sure what these material the carvings are made out of? He plans on using Q-Tips to clean around them. He is afraid they might become loose.

Does anyone know what these are made out of, and any advice on cleaning around them?

Thanks!

[woodwright]

The applied "carvings" on the doors look like compostion (aka compo) - by the age cracks in them (from drying out). Solid wood or pressed wood carvings should not have cracks like that.
Use caution: Most strippers will disolve/ soften them. They are also sensitive to water & water based products and can soften or disolve. Use water based products sparingly on them.   woodwright

[tcandkk]

Woodwright,

Thank you! This piece looks to have been refinished at least once. My husband has not attempted to use anything on the doors as of yet.

I did find this page that has information about repairing compo.

Compo deterioration and repair

Donna