Hi MMDer's,  I am in the process of rebuilding a push-up player
(circa 1902), and have been having a little bit of trouble with the
case restoration.  I am attempting to duplicate the glossy black
finish originally on the item and can't seem to get it quite right.

It is my assumption that the proper way to do this is to lay down
the black coat and then build up the finish with clear shellac.
Does this sound right.  Is there a better way?

The main problem I am having is finding an undercoat (black) that will
duplicate the original finish when coated with shellac.  So far I have
tried several different types of paints and dyes, but nothing has the
depth of the original finish.  I thought something like key black might
be good, but who knows.  I would appreciate any advice on the subject.

Rob Buckingham