A Touch of Refinement: Pioneer Graining

Authors

Doris R. Dant

Keywords

Mormon studies, pioneer, Salt Lake Tabernacle, graining

Abstract

Visitors to the Salt Lake Tabernacle are often stunned to learn that the pillars supporting the gallery are not marble but are pine painted to look like marble and that the "oak" benches and organ case are also pine with simulated oak graining. The Tabernacle woodwork and furniture are the most visible reminders of the practice of graining, a technique widely used in Utah Territory's furniture to imitate the look of marble, hardwood, and even leather.

Recommended Citation

Dant, Doris R. (1999) "A Touch of Refinement: Pioneer Graining," BYU Studies Quarterly: Vol. 38: Iss. 1, Article 11.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/byusq/vol38/iss1/11