WOOD FIGURE INFLUENCE IN CHOOSING A FINISH FOR SOLID WOOD FURNITURE

Previous studies have identified a strong preference for finishes that provide a surface perceived comparably close to that of wood in its natural state. This study focuses on establishing if physical characteristics of wood grain can affect the choice of a finish, regardless of the initial preference. Experienced examiners carry out the analysis, while the influence of their individual cultural background is taken into consideration in analyzing the results. The subjects are presented with a selection of samples of different wood species finished with materials that do not generate a perceivable film over the surface and others yielding a smooth, clear film. The samples are analyzed by tactile and visual means, both in a static and in a dynamic manner, where the light continuously changes angle, thus enhancing grain reflectance variations, if present. Notable influence is observed where there is a significant perceived contrast change due to chatoyance phenomena. The conclusion of the paper is that perfecting wood finishes and their use in different applications must relate to human awareness and perception of the particular finished surface.