Satinwood, also known as yellow wood, was a very expensive tropical hardwood with a glossy finish. It was used in fine  furniture, cabinetwork and decorative veneers. During the late 18th and throughout the 19th centuries, satinwood was in vogue.  Its light tones provided a perfect canvas for veneers or painting.  Native to India, Sri Lanka and parts of the Caribbean, it is still available today as a luxury wood item.