Gilding at Versailles

Written by two gilders from the restoration workshop at the Château de Versailles, this book uses exceptional objects to present the art of the gilder's craft. Using numerous examples of restoration work, it discusses traditional and modern gilding methods.

Gilding with tempera, which can give an incomparable shine, gilding with mixtion, as well as the use of backgrounds and other techniques are detailed step by step. The numerous photographs show the gestures and processes used by the professionals. Some twenty masterpieces, restored by the gilding workshop, are then examined and each intervention described in detail. Throughout the pages, the rooms of the castle, decorated with magnificent carved and gilded woodwork, illustrate the work of gilders of yesterday and today.