The gilding process has been used on objects and interiors since the earliest Egypytian times and continues to be used to this day. We carry out a large amount of gilding work using traditional oil, water and glass gilding techniques. We very occasionally use modern materials however this is very limited as we prefer to use traditional materials and techniques to produce a trusted, reliable and visually more pleasing results.
Please use the slider above as a quick browse through some of our gilding work. For more in depth information on our gilding work and research please visit the Previous Projects and News page.
Oil Gilding
Oil gilding is the application of a metal leaf onto an oil based size. It has many uses and can be applied to most substrates but cannot be burnished.
Water Gilding
Water gilding is the application of a metal leaf onto a water base size. The size is applied onto a prepared ground of gesso and bole. The surface can be burnished to a high shine. This method is unsuitable for exterior work.
Glass Gilding - Verre Eglomise
Glass gilding (verre eglomise) is the application of a metal leaf onto the back of glass, usually called reverse glass gilding. Both oil and water sizes can be used to adhere the leaf onto the glass.
Gilding and Historic Finishes
“We have employed the services of Eskdale Restoration to provide quality finishes to our restored metalwork on a number of high quality listed buildings in the recent past and have always been delighted with their attention to detail and knowledge of historic finishes. The small dedicated and friendly team have always worked in a timely manner and to budget. The Eskdale team come highly recommended and we would have no reservations in empolying them again in the furture”.
Steve Gort, Director, Calibre Metalwork Ltd.
6th September 2019