The fast answer is yes, Wood Elixir when applied with steel wool, will smooth and restore the original shellac finish and not disturb the hand-grained finish. What you are describing is a 'faux oak' finish designed to replicate a 'quarter-cut' oak finish. This finish is applied mechanically, with the best renditions being done by hand. This is typical of many pieces produced in the 1920's. It is usually applied over maple but never over solid oak. The link below will show a hand-grained 1/4 cut oak finish with paint splatters on it. Wood Elixir removed the paint splatters without disturbing the original graining.
--Previous Message-- : We have an antique solid oak wardrobe that I : thought was real tiger striped oak but : have found that it wipes off when using : another brand of refinisher. Will your : product smooth the "grainy" feel : and appearance on the wardrobe now but : leave this tiger stripe effect? Thanks. : Kevin :