xyz Qin, July 2013. 13 layers of lacquer.

Thirteen layers of ultra thin natural lacquer - transparent no color pure high quality lacquer.  The lacquer is very toxic, should do it in a well ventilated area - but without wind or dust for a mirror finish.

Use cotton fibre balls, wind it into a little hand ball, 2cm dia is enough, dip it into the lacquer.  Lacquer could be diluted with a little oil if its too thick.  Push the lacquer full length along the qin body.  Wait half a day, then do the second layer.  

First 6 layer will take the qin surface from dull to semi-gloss, after 6th layer, it begins to shine like a mirror.

The light catches the various layers of lacquer underneath - like an opalesque surface.