Traditional Water Gilding

Traditional Water Gilding is a practical and authoritative guide to the historic art of applying gold leaf to a prepared wooden surface using water-based protein glues. Drawing on the rich history of this ancient craft, Rian Kanduth leads the student through the complete process and celebrates one of the most beautiful decorative crafts of all. From past civilisations to the present day, gilding has adapted and thrived, leaving its shimmering mark on art, architecture and culture worldwide. This practical book is testament to gold’s enduring appeal as a decorative material and to the extraordinary skills of the craftsmen who have mastered its use. Written by a leading gilder and educator, it provides a full account of traditional gilding for today’s student and practitioner. The book introduces the essential materials and tools before guiding the reader through the full range of techniques, supported by detailed photographs that demonstrate each stage. Furthermore, it explores a variety of surface techniques – including distressing, sgraffito and lustre work – allowing readers to expand their creative and technical repertoire, and includes an investigation into clay bole colours to help with accurate colour-matching for conservation projects. It is an essential guide for students learning traditional gilding, as well as for conservators and restorers seeking to understand the methods and materials behind this timeless and beautiful craft.

‘An invaluable treatise and comprehensive resource.’ – VIV LAWES