Gildes

Gildes is a term that may appear in reference to two related but distinct concepts: guilds in historical European towns and the decorative technique of gilding. In standard English usage, the plural of gild (the thin layer of gold applied to a surface) is gilds, and the plural of guild (the craft association) is guilds. The form gildes is rare in modern English but may be encountered in historical texts or as a loanword in other languages.

Gildes as guilds: In medieval and early modern Europe, gildes were voluntary associations of craftsmen, merchants, or professionals formed to regulate trade, protect members, and provide mutual aid. They issued statutes or charters, admitted new members through training or apprenticeship, and maintained standards of quality and pricing. Gildes often had social, religious, and charitable functions, and could influence local governance through privileges or representation in municipal institutions. Major cities supported multiple gildes for different trades, and some gildes evolved into city guilds or livery companies.

Gilding: The other common meaning relates to gilding, the process of applying a thin layer of gold to a surface. Gild is the material or the coated surface; gilding techniques include water gilding, oil gilding, and modern electroplating. Gilds, as a plural noun, are less used for the coating; correctly it is gilds.

Modern usage: Today, surviving gildes are primarily historical, with many preserved in museums and architecture. See also guild, gilding, gilded.