Gilding
Gilding Techniques, Care and Maintenance, published by Historic Environment Scotland in January 2007 states: ‘Gilding is the application of thin layers of metal, most commonly gold, onto a surface. It is often to be found as decoration for picture frames and furniture, but architectural gilding can also be found on detailing in the decoration of rooms, or on external details such as heraldry and inscription panels.’
It goes on to state: ‘Gilding appears as a solid surface whereas paint will appear more granular, streaky and dull in appearance by comparison. Whilst gold leaf does not tarnish, paint oxidises and consequently becomes a green-brown colour on ageing. This makes gold leaf relatively easy to identify. True gilding retains its characteristic metallic sheen long after paint has lost its original shine. If there is doubt over whether or not gilding is present, the situation should be treated with caution until a professional opinion can be obtained.’
The two main techniques for gilding are oil gilding and water gilding.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
AI and automation in 3D modelling and spatial design
Can almost half of design development tasks be automated?
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
The maintenance challenge of tenements.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.
Shortlist for the 2025 Roofscape Design Awards
Talent and innovation showcase announcement from the trussed rafter industry.
OpenUSD possibilities: Look before you leap
Being ready for the OpenUSD solutions set to transform architecture and design.
Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2025
Highlighting the continuing threat to trades persons.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Now available in Arabic and Chinese aswell as English.
The context, schemes, standards, roles and relevance of the Building Safety Act.
Retrofit 25 – What's Stopping Us?
Exhibition Opens at The Building Centre.