The term gilding covers a number of decorative techniques for applying fine gold leaf or powder to solid surfaces such as wood, stone, or metal to give a thin coating of gold. A gilded object is described as "gilt", when applied over wood, it's called Gilt Wood.
If gilding is on wood, the surface was often first coated with gesso. "Gesso" is a substance made of finely ground gypsum or chalk mixed with glue. Once the coating of gesso had been applied, allowed to dry and smoothed, it was re-wet with a sizing made of glue and water. Water gilding, which allows the surface to be subsequently burnished to a mirror-like finish, the gold leaf was layered on the gesso and left to dry. Water gilding in the Old World was quite an art and has a glow not achieved from simply applying gold leaf. Sharing with you a few examples of gilt wood...
Collection of mounted Antique Gilt Wood Crosses... |
Fabulous setting from bellafayegarden |
Antique Gilt Wood Altar Pricketts... |
Beautiful Gilt Architectural Putto in Paris... |
Gilt wood Sunburst Mirrors from alexmacarthurco.uk |
Pair French Bergeres from Bella Cottage... |
Beautiful French Gilt Wood Bench from Bella Cottage |
Antique French Gilt Wood Mirrors from Antique Diva... |
18th c Carved Gilt Wood Angel or Putto from 1st Dibs... |
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