I think you should be able to get close to the color using shellac with a dye mixed in. Many older floors were sealed with shellac (use de-waxed shellac) that had color mixed in, or using Garnet colored shellac. Universal sealer is shellac. You can buy powdered colors that you mix in then strain before application. If the floor is sanded for a stain, which means no large scratches, you can coat the floor with a lambs wool applicator after your helper cuts in around the edges with a brush. A 16 inch applicator block with a pan so you can dip it in to cover large areas at once will be the best method. You only have one chance to spread an even coat so the color is good. You don't need to worry about lap marks if you go with the grain from wall to wall carefully in 2-3 foot wide strips. After the one coat of colored shellac you can coat with oil based poly-urethane varnish which adds an amber or yellow tone. Garnet shellac may have been the color that was used originally, but may have wax in it and could affect the adhesion of poly-urethane.. Mix your color to match with the right powders.
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