Gilding and staffage are historical polychromy techniques that have evolved since antiquity. They involve the application of metal leaf to various surfaces and testify to the skill of ancient craftsmen in working with natural materials.
In the past, these techniques were used in the decoration of both works of art and handcrafted goods. Gilding is a technologically demanding craft with various types that have survived to this day.
Our studio specializes in the gilding of historical and artistic objects with gold leaf on both poliment and mixtion. Restoration includes a detailed survey of the original condition of the object, its reconstruction, consolidation, and final surface treatments, including gilding using the original technique. The entire process is fully documented, and the final restoration report includes a description of the restoration procedure along with photographic documentation. In addition to restoring art objects in the studio, we also carry out on-site gilding of architectural elements (e.g., gilded inscriptions on buildings, domes, etc.).
Mixtion gilding is a simpler but less lustrous method for various surfaces. Gold leaf is adhered to the mixtion (tinted linseed oil), with the correct tackiness of the mixtion being key.
Poliment gilding is the most precious technique. The flexible poliment is made from bole, water, soap, tallow, and wax, applied to a chalk ground, and polished with flannel. Before gilding, it is moistened with alcohol, the gold leaves are pressed on with a brush, and it is polished with agate for shine.
This quick method of gilding with gold leaf without polishing is mainly used in decoration, scenography, and matting. Gold leaf is applied to a wet egg yolk base.
