Gilding is the application of gold leaf to panels, furniture, or decorative objects to achieve either a shiny or matte finish. There are two primary methods: water gilding and oil gilding, each offering distinct finishes and applications.
Water gilding is ideal for areas that require a polished, reflective surface. It begins with sealing the wooden panel with glue and coating it with multiple layers of gesso (a mixture of chalk and glue). Once the gesso is dry, it is smoothed with a natural abrasive and carved with the desired design. A layer of bole (clay mixed with glue), typically in yellow or red, is then applied and polished until smooth. The surface is dampened to reactivate the glue, and gold leaf is applied with a gilder’s tip. Raised areas are burnished with an agate stone for a high shine, while background areas remain matte. Flat areas can also be carved or incised to add decorative patterns.
Oil gilding is simpler and best suited to matte finishes or textured surfaces. An oil-based adhesive is applied to the areas to be gilded and left to dry until tacky before the gold leaf is pressed on. Additional decorative elements like sand or cast decorations can be added to enhance texture and depth.
Both techniques can be used in combination to create varied finishes, with water gilding for shiny areas and oil gilding for matte or textured sections.