Two things, I recon I saw that an instrument at the old Paris Con. collection in the 70's had the gold bands UNDER varnish and as well the paint formed the edge to the bands ie the bands had paint over them to demark the edge. I think the Edinburgh Taskin is also varnished over the gold although that may not be the original finish I have found that in time gold bands can rub away in places of hand contact. Vermilion is an unbeatable red particularly if mixed with shellac to create a lacquer finish. Vermilion pigment is not difficult to make if you want to kill yourself.

Richard

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