Kultauksia

Kultauksia, or gildings, is the practice of applying an extremely thin sheet of gold or a gold-colored material to a surface to create a gold appearance. It is used on wood, stone, metal, ceramics, and plaster in art, furniture, architecture, and decorative objects. The aim is to achieve the visual richness of gold without the cost or weight of solid gold.

Historically, gilding has been a prominent technique in many cultures. It played a central role in ancient and medieval art, religious objects, and architectural ornamentation, and it remained influential through the Renaissance and into modern times. In the 19th century, refinements and conservation concerns shaped contemporary practice, and today gilding is kept alive as both a traditional craft and a modern finishing option.

Two main traditional methods are vesikulta (water gilding) and öljykulta (oil gilding). Vesikulta uses a moisture-activated adhesive and a bole ground to create a smooth warmth under the gold leaf; the leaf is laid carefully and burnished to a high shine. Öljykulta uses an oil-based size, which allows for easier handling and sealing of the finished surface with varnish or lacquer. Modern approaches may employ additional finishes or non-foil gold paints to imitate gilding while offering improved durability.

Applications include picture frames, furniture, interior architecture, sculpture, ceramics, and decorative objects. Proper preservation requires gentle cleaning and protection from moisture and abrasion, with protective coatings or varnishes commonly used to extend longevity. Historical forms such as fire gilding, which used mercury, are now avoided due to safety concerns.