GLOSSARY

Baby Ostrich

Metals and Pearls, Baby Ostrich and Moccassin, distinctive materials engineered by Majilite Corporation, has the elegant appearance and touch of fine, soft glove leather with the durability and inherent stain resistance achieved through advanced technology.

The same space-age chemistry used to develop bullet-proof glass and high performance aircraft components has been successfully applied to fiber and textile engineering to produce the outstanding characteristics of the materials in the Nytek collection.

The nylon fibers in Nytek are laid down in a three-directional axis similar to the natural structure of collagen that is found in leather, resulting in superior durability. One ounce of this nylon micro fiber would be long enough to wrap around the equator several times.

Bamboo

A giant, hollow grass has crosswise membranes that form its distinct "knuckles". McGuire imports choice Yellow-Gold, Black-Brown and the rarest, Mottled "Shina Chiku", from Japan and China.

Chiffonier

A high narrow chest of drawers.

Cloisonné

The cloisonné technique dates back to the Byzantine Empire. This technique of enameling on metal reached China during the 12th century. It is a multi-step, challenging process requiring skill, dexterity, and technical know-how. The process begins when copper wires are formed by hand to outline a design or pattern. Once formed, the wires are then soldered in place onto a copper base forming ‘cloisons’ or cells. The cells are then carefully filled with enamel powders consisting of silica and various combinations of metal oxides that are used to create different colors. The piece is then fired in a kiln, with special attention paid to specific temperatures required for various colors. The enamel shrinks during firing, and the process of refilling the cloisons with more enamel powder and firing must be repeated several times. The enamel surface is then ground to an even level with the top of the wires. Finally, the surface is polished and the exposed wires are plated with gold.

Enamel

A vitreous, usually opaque coating that can be either protective or decorative that is then baked onto metal, glass or ceramic ware.

Honeycomb Cane

Featured weave of most of our (woven rattan caned) chairs, the pattern resembles the cross section cell pattern of a honey comb.

Lacquer

Lacquer is a highly regarded art form and has been used in China since the Shang Dynasty (1600 B.C. – 1100 B.C.). The term ‘lacquer’ refers to the name of the substance as well as the technique. True organic lacquer, which is the type used in this collection, is made of translucent sap collected from trees (rhus verniciflua) that are indigenous to East Asia. After it is tapped from the trees, the sap is boiled and strained to remove impurities and to prepare it for use as a coating. Various substances, often closely guarded ‘recipes’, are added to the lacquer as colorants. Once prepared, the lacquer is applied in thin layers multiple times, waiting for each layer to dry or cure for at least 24 hours before the next layer is applied. The lacquer must cure in a high humidity environment, and it is crucial that only a thin coating be applied each time. If applied too thickly, the lacquer underneath does not cure properly and remains in a semi-liquid state.

Lumbar Pillow

A pillow for the lower back, sometimes referred to as kidney pillow.

Luxe Cushions

Our finest cushions with the softer feel of old-fashioned goose down.