A viscid liquid, consisting of a solution of resinous
   matter in an oil or a volatile liquid, laid on work with a brush, or
   otherwise. When applied the varnish soon dries, either by evaporation
   or chemical action, and the resinous part forms thus a smooth, hard
   surface, with a beautiful gloss, capable of resisting, to a greater or
   less degree, the influences of air and moisture.