An Introduction to Water Gilding

Rating:
Summary: An introductory book, with difficult-to-find Gilding Recipes
Review: In the mysterious and rarified world of fine art picture-frame making and gilding, this 37-page book is an important introduction to the art of water gilding, mostly by way of its recipes and techniques as learned and practiced by two sucessful gilders. Difficult-to-find recipes are carefully detailed, even if discussions of technique sometimes left me craving greater detail and specific references to exact photos in the text. The organizational structure and chronological presentation chosen by the authors in their description of the many-stepped processes of gilding and patina-building confused me at times, so I simply reorganized the details in my reference notes to better meet my needs. There is minimal information (other than the pros/cons of various wood species) useful in actually making built-up frames from unfinished wood, plaster or whatever, so you'll have to get that help elsewhere. And, sadly, there is minimal information on sources of the numerous gilding materials and tools you'll need (many of which are unique to gilding, obscure and rearely seen in retail art stores), so you'll have to search the internet on your own - suppliers are out there. Regardless of these minor inconveniences, this is a rare and precious short reference on old-world, difficult-to-find water gilding recipes useful as the basis for initial experimentation or for extending your existing knowledge. If you are new to the art of water gilding, you have just begun your journey with this introductory book, but you will undoubtedly refer back to it over and over as you experiment and learn more from other references and practitioners of the art. For great fun, visit one of the authors shop in Santa Fe, NM where you'll see gilding in action behind the counter.