The Art of Applying Gold Leaf to Objects using either the Water or Oil Based Techniques.
Water Gilding
The most challenging but superior in appearance. This is a method in which I use real Gold Leaf usually 23.5kt. loose-leaf sheets, Wood, Gesso, and Bole. First the wooden structure typically a frame is sanded to receive the many layers of Gesso. Once Gesso is layered and dry it is carved and sanded to receive a layer of Bole'. Bole' is clay which comes in either an earthy red tone, Black or Yellow Ochre. The color of Bole used will determine the tone of the piece once it is Gilded. Finally, a thin layer of water is used to bond the gold leaf to the Bole and a final step of Burnishing is done to enhance highlights of the piece to a mirror finish.
Interior use only.
Oil Gilding
An oil-based "Size" or Glue is used to adhere gold leaf to a surface. Oil Gilding is a more durable finish than water gilding. It can be used for exterior purposes.
Parcel Gilt, Lacquer, or Varnish Gilding-
I mix accordingly (to the color desired) a variety of Bronze and sometimes Gold powders in an oil-based Varnish to achieve the desired tone mostly for touch upon pieces that do not require the look or do not warrant the cost of real 23kt gold leaf. Parcel Gilt is also a very useful method of enhancing a piece with painted decoration such as you would see on a 19th C. Chinoiserie piece.
Venetian or "Mecca" Gilt Finish
A technique where the Silver leaf is applied to a surface and then different Varnishes are mixed to treat in combination with oxidation to achieve different tones, some of which could be easily mistaken for gold leaf. Lovely and often seen on Italian pieces.
Spot Gilding
An especially difficult technique used when Conserving a piece. The technique requires special attention to be given to only repair and restore missing elements of a piece and then gently blend the "New" Gold leaf into the existing antique Gold leaf.
Contact Candice
Please use the form to inquire about restoration, finishing, repair, and custom services. You will receive a response within 24 hours and I look forward to learning more about your project.