Here's why it's difficult to pinpoint an exact date:
* Ancient Origins: Shellac, the primary ingredient in French Polish, has been used for centuries. The Egyptians used it for varnish, and it was also employed by the Chinese and the Indians.
* Evolving Technique: Over time, the application process and the specific ingredients used in French Polish have changed. It wasn't a sudden invention, but rather a gradual evolution of techniques.
* "French" Is Misleading: The term "French Polish" itself is somewhat misleading. While the technique was popular in France, it likely originated elsewhere, perhaps in Italy or the Netherlands.
Therefore, it's more accurate to say that French Polish is a technique that developed gradually over centuries, with contributions from various cultures and time periods.