The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Japanning \Ja*pan"ning\, n.
   The art or act of varnishing in the Japanese manner.
   [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Japan \Ja*pan"\ (j[.a]*p[a^]n"), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Japanned
   (j[.a]*p[a^]nd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Japanning.]
   [1913 Webster]
   1. To cover with a coat of hard, brilliant varnish, in the
      manner of the Japanese; to lacquer.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. To give a glossy black to, as shoes. [R.] --Gay.
      [1913 Webster]