Wire strung harps lying in state in the “tomb.”
Finishing oil diluted with mineral spirits has been applied to seal the wood. In a way it is a fool’s errand because the wood will transpire moisture no matter what finish is applied. But wood that has an oil finish transpires moisture much more slowly so that sudden changes in humidity don’t cause mayhem.
As the oil polymerizes, it will move and shift the grain on the surface of the wood causing it to withdraw in some places and rise in others. I call this the Lazarus Grain. It is more pronounced on some species of wood than others. But it will rise.
Then the harps will be called forth and the grain buffed down and the coats of pure oil will be applied to complete the process.
