I looked at the MMD Archives and there were a few questions, but no
responses, about general approaches to Ariston organette restoration.
I am now in the process of such a restoration and could use some input.

I am at the early stages of work.  When I removed the hardware and the
top cover plate, I found that some previous user had used a piece of
art paper, complete with lilies painted on it, to seal off the pressure
side of the unit.  Gaskets had been installed all around, which appear
to be thin leather.

My initial question is, in its original condition, would there have
been some sort of cover over the pressurized side of the unit, other
than the wood top plate?  If so, what would it have been made of?
Am I correct in assuming that the gaskets around the edges would have
been leather?

I am very new at this, so please excuse if I seem to be off on the
wrong track.

Gary Goldsmith