Paul McCobb Chairs

[Mcm1957]

I recently acquired a pair of Paul McCobb planner chairs. They were in rough original condition with an old dried out walnut colored finish. I’ve nearly finished sanding. Now I’m trying to figure out best way to finish. I’ve read some conflicting info....start with a wood conditioner..then stain ...start with shellac cut with denatured alcohol...then stain....start with a wood sealer right out of can...then stain. Don’t use shellac or sealer...seal with poly first then stain. Also gel stain vs regular stain. Any advice would be great. Thanks. Also anyone have a stain color they think is accurate for these chairs? I don’t really want anything dark.