Getting Used to Cerused

By Lynda Simonton 

One of the hot trends coming out of the High Point Market last week was furniture crafted of cerused wood. The technique of cerusing wood dates as far back as the 1600s, when oak was rubbed with a white lead derivative to achieve a pronounced grain. In modern times the technique is created with non-toxic wax finishes that are rubbed into wood grain. Cerused wood is appealing because it evokes an earthiness and hand-crafted quality. It is certainly a look that will be best appreciated by people who are drawn to more rustic woods versus woods with more subtle grains. Here is just a quick sampling of some furnishings featuring cerused oak in a variety of styles.

The Harvest Table by Bunny Williams Home is a classic style with lovely soft finishes. The cerused oak top is a perfect complement to the grey wrought iron finish on the table base.

Want your ceruse in small doses? This sweet chandelier by Shine by S.H.O. fits the bill. The cerused beads create a light and airy chandelier.

The simple lines of the Josephine Dining Chair from Serena and Lily are enhanced with a very subtle cerused oak finish that has a beachy California vibe.

This console balances rustic cerused oak with the shine of a silver base. A series of small drawers and trays provides plenty of storage. Available through Mecox Gardens.

This table from Stamford Modern demonstrates a slightly different cerusing technique with ebony stained wood. The dark finish is a more glamorous take on ceruse and the result is a serious statement piece.

Our May–June issue is chock full of upcoming design trends. The magazine will pop up in your mailbox next week.