Re: Guess the finish
First, I'd be surprised if the back wasn't made from staves, rather than a hollowed out chunk of wood. But without any photo that's just conjecture.
To determine the finish, test an area [perhaps where it's delaminating] with alcohol. If it softens it's likely shellac-based. If alcohol just clouds it but acetone or lacquer thinner attack it it's lacquer. If nothing affects it that would indicate a cross-linked finish such as polyurethane.
Once we know what you're dealing with, meaningful suggestions will follow.
Shade Tree Fretted Instrument Repair, retired
Nevada City, California
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