Regilding

Regilding is the restoration of gilded surfaces by applying new gold or gilding materials to restore appearance and protection after wear, tarnish, or damage. It is commonly used on architectural ornament, picture frames, statues, and religious icons.

Traditional gilding uses gold leaf applied with an adhesive called size. Water gilding uses a water-based size and a bole underlayer for depth; oil gilding uses an oil-based size. Modern regilding may employ gold leaf substitutes or gilding paints. Gold leaf is typically 23-24 karat; leaf is extremely thin and handled with soft brushes and special tools.

The conservation process generally includes assessment and cleaning, removal of loose material, and surface repairs. The next steps involve applying the appropriate adhesive, laying gold leaf carefully, burnishing to level the surface, and sealing with varnish or resin. In historic works, patina and original technique are considered to preserve authenticity and value.

Regilding raises issues of reversibility, material compatibility, and conservation ethics; professional conservators are often recommended for historic or valuable objects to avoid damage and ensure appropriate methods. Documentation of the original technique and materials is commonly part of the process to aid future conservation work.

Applications include architectural cornices and ceilings, frames for paintings and mirrors, statues, and religious icons around the world. Regilding aims to restore visual unity and protection while respecting historical context and, where possible, reversibility of intervention.