Gilding restoration: preparatory and gilding work

Gilding restoration is a complex and demanding process that combines art and technology. It aims to restore the original appearance of gilded elements that have lost their lustre over time, been damaged or contaminated. Special attention is paid to preserving the authenticity and historical value of the object.

Objectives of gilding restoration

The main objectives of restoration include:

Restoring the aesthetic properties of the gilding (lustre, colour) Preserving the cultural and historical value of the object Ensuring the longevity of the restored elements Protecting the gilded surfaces from further damage.

Restoration works are carried out on various objects: interior elements (mouldings, cornices, furniture, frames) and exterior elements (facades, domes, sculptures).

Preparatory work

Preparation for restoration is one of the most important stages, which affects the final result.

1. assessment of the condition of the object

Before starting work, a detailed study of the gilded surfaces is carried out:

Analysing the condition of the gold: whether it has been preserved, how badly damaged. Identification of the base: what the surface is made of (wood, plaster, metal, stone). Diagnosis of damage: cracks, delaminations, contamination, corrosion of the base.

This stage makes it possible to draw up a work plan and determine restoration methods.

2. surface cleaning

Gilded elements are carefully cleaned from dust, grease and old varnish. The following methods are used:

Mechanical cleaning (soft brushes, cotton swabs) Chemical cleaning (solvents that do not harm the gold or the base) The main task is to preserve the existing layer of gilding, if possible.

3. Preservation of the base

If the base is damaged (e.g. cracks in wood or plaster), it is reinforced with special compounds. Metal bases are cleaned of rust and coated with anti-corrosion agents.

4. Preparation for applying a new layer of gilding

For the restoration of gilding it is important to create a strong adhesion between the new layer of gold and the substrate. Special primers (e.g. Bolus) are used to provide an ideal surface for the gilding.

Gilding work

The application of a new layer of gold is the main stage of restoration, which requires a high degree of precision and craftsmanship.

1: Gilding techniques

The same techniques are used for restoration as for new work:

Water gilding: for interiors and details with minimal physical stress. Oil gilding: for exteriors and elements exposed to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

2. Application of gold leaf

Gold leaf is applied to the surface by hand using gilding brushes or tweezers, the surface is gently smoothed to ensure even adhesion of the gold.

When restoring antique objects, the surviving areas of the original gilding are preserved and supplemented with new parts.

3. Polishing and protection

After the gold is applied, the surface is polished to give it a shiny finish. Finishes are used to protect it from damage:

Varnishes or protective resins (for exteriors), wax coatings (for interiors).

Peculiarities of interior restoration

For the restoration of interior elements it is important to take into account the original style of the room and preserve its authenticity. The work is carried out under controlled humidity and temperature conditions to avoid damage to the gold. Special attention is paid to details, such as small elements of mouldings or carvings.

Features of exterior restoration

Elements exposed to the weather (domes, facades) require special protection, oil gilding is used, which is highly resistant to moisture and ultraviolet light, restoration of exterior objects is often carried out in several stages due to the large amount of work and difficulty of access.

Problems that can arise during restoration

Insufficient adhesion: if the substrate surface is not well prepared. Cracks in the new gilding: due to insufficient flexibility of the adhesive or temperature fluctuations. Fading or tarnishing of the gold: if a protective layer has not been applied.

The solution is to follow the technological norms at every stage of work and use quality materials.

Advantages of professional restoration

Preservation of the historical value of the object. Long service life of the renewed gilding. Aesthetic perfection of the restored elements. Protection of the object from further damage.

Gilding restoration is a complex and multifaceted process that requires specialised knowledge, skills and love of art. Restoring the shine and beauty of gilded surfaces not only prolongs their ‘life cycle’, but also emphasises the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage for future generations.