"Flats" wrote in message
The reason I am
concerned is because the lacquer looks very thick and practically
indestructible. I hate to get started without having a general idea of
what I'm getting into.

Any warnings or suggestions?

Are you sure it is lacquer? I've seen furniture with a thick coating of
some sort of poly material and that would not be easily removed. If it is
lacquer, put a dab of acetone or lacquer thinner in an inconspicuous place.
It will dissolve easily if lacquer, not at all of something else.