This unique synthetic fiber is so much like mongoose, it even has the tapered point and surface texture of the natural hair. Yet it has better durability. The synthetic is stiffer than sable, but softer than hog bristle. - Winsor & Newton Monarch Mongoose Brush - Glazing, Short Handle, 1"SZ 1IN - Apply varnishes, primers, and gessos. The Monarch Glazing Brush is made with the same synthetic mongoose fiber as other brushes in the Monarch series, a compromise between the stiffness of bristle and the softness of sable.