The secrets of gilded frames

A gilded frame has long been regarded as one of the most luxurious ways to finish a picture. Its warm sheen changes with the light, and the depth of a well-made gilded surface cannot be matched by any paint. Below is a short overview of how traditional gilding is done and when it is worth restoring the gilding.

How a frame is gilded

1. Preparing the base. A wooden frame or its moulded ornaments are coated several times with gesso, a mixture of chalk or gypsum and animal glue. Each layer is dried and sanded so that the surface becomes perfectly smooth while the fine details of the ornament stay crisp.
2. Bole. A thin layer of coloured clay, the bole, is applied over the gesso, usually red, yellow or grey-blue. It gives the gold warmth and depth and later allows it to be burnished.
3. Laying the leaf. In water gilding the bole is moistened with water, and an extremely thin leaf of gold is lifted with a special brush and settles onto the surface. In oil gilding the leaf is laid on a layer of oil-based size; such a surface is matt and less sensitive to moisture. Instead of real gold a cheaper metal leaf (for example imitation gold or silver) is sometimes used.
4. Burnishing. Once dry, water gilding is burnished in chosen areas with an agate stone until it takes on a mirror-like shine. Other areas are left matt, and this contrast creates a lively, rich look.
5. Patina and protection. The gold is sometimes gently rubbed back or toned to look more natural, and the surface is protected with varnish or wax so that it does not wear off.

When it is worth restoring the gilding

• the gold is worn at the corners and raised parts, and the base shows through;
• the surface has turned black or dull, or has been painted over with old bronze paint;
• the gesso is cracking or flaking, and pieces of ornament have fallen off;
• the frame has historical or family value and you want to preserve its appearance.

Often a gentle clean or touching up only the damaged areas is enough, instead of regilding the whole frame. What is best depends on the condition and age of the frame and on how much of the original gold layer has survived.

Video

Below is an English-language video by a third party showing the water gilding process. It is hosted by YouTube and loads only when you press the button; until you do, no data is sent to YouTube.

Contact the workshop

If you have a frame whose gold has worn away, or you would like to know which finish would suit your picture, bring the frame or a photograph to the workshop. We will look at its condition and discuss what is worth renewing.