gilt

Gilt refers to a thin layer of gold or a gold-coloured appearance applied to a surface, and to the process of applying such a layer. As a noun, a gilt is an object that has been covered with gold leaf or gold paint. As an adjective, gilt describes surfaces or items that are gold-coloured or plated. The gold layer is typically applied as gold leaf or as a gold-containing binding medium.

Gilding techniques vary. Water gilding uses a bole underlayer and an animal glue size; gold leaf is applied with a gilder’s tip and finished with a protective varnish. Oil gilding relies on an oil-based size and is valued for durability, especially outdoors. Mercury gilding, or fire gilding, was historically used on metal objects but is hazardous and largely obsolete today. Modern practices may employ synthetic adhesives or durable gold paints and leaf substitutes.

Applications of gilding span architecture, sculpture, picture frames, furniture, religious artifacts, and signage. Common forms include gilt wood and gilt-bronze, as well as gilded plaster or metals. In color terminology, gilt is often used to describe a gold-like hue or metallic finish, particularly in heraldry, interior design, and art.

Preservation and restoration of gilt surfaces require careful maintenance. Gilded layers are delicate and susceptible to abrasion, moisture, and flaking. Restoration might involve cleaning, resealing, or re-gilding with fresh leaf and appropriate sizing to restore the original appearance.