When we visit an art museum, there’s no doubt that our eyes are drawn to grand oil paintings. We marvel at the colors and brushstrokes, the composition of the piece, and the story it tells. But have you ever laid eyes on a gilded painting?
Gilded paintings are not flashy, but they’re just as stunning. That’s because their beauty lies in the subtle shimmer of gold leaf. While gold leaf has been used in artwork for centuries, it was in the 13th century that gilding became a popular technique.
Artists would first apply a layer of gesso, a type of plaster, to the canvas. Once it was dry, they would meticulously apply sheets of gold leaf, using a delicate brush to ensure it adhered to the gesso without ripping. This process was very time-consuming and often required multiple layers of gold leaf to achieve the desired effect.
One of the most famous examples of gilded paintings is Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.” Completed in 1908, the painting depicts a couple embraced in a passionate kiss, with a swirling background of golden patterns.
But it’s not just classic artwork that utilizes gilding. Even modern artists are incorporating this technique into their pieces. In fact, some artists are experimenting with other metals such as silver and copper.
While gilded paintings may look luxurious and opulent, it’s interesting to note that they were also used as a means of saving money. Back in the day, only the wealthy could afford to commission expensive oil paintings. However, by incorporating gold leaf, artists could give a painting a more intricate and detailed look without having to use expensive pigments.
This technique was also used in religious art where gold leaf symbolized divinity. In Christian artwork, one of the most famous depictions of this is the “The Offering of the Magi” painting. Created during the medieval period, the painting depicts three kings paying homage to baby Jesus. The painting’s gold leaf background and intricate design give the piece a holy and regal feel.
Even though gilding is often associated with the past, it’s still a popular technique used in contemporary art. Artists are finding new and innovative ways to incorporate gilding into their pieces. Some even forgo the traditional process of using gold leaf and instead opt for metallic paints or powders.
In 2018, artist Jonty Hurwitz created an artwork called “Hyperrealistic Anamorphic Sculpture of a Goldfish.” It looks like an ordinary fish swimming in a bowl. But upon closer inspection, the fish is actually a sculpture made of wire and 24-carat gold. The sculpture is coated in transparent resin, which creates the illusion that the fish is swimming in a bowl of water.
Looking at these gilded paintings, we can’t help but be amazed by the skill and precision of the artists who created them. The use of gold leaf may seem like a small detail, but it can transform a painting into a work of art that exudes luxury and class.
While we may not be able to afford a real gold gilded painting, we can still appreciate their beauty and the techniques used to create them. Next time you visit an art museum and come across a gilded painting, take a moment to observe the intricate patterns and subtle sheen. It’s amazing how a touch of gold can elevate a painting into a masterpiece.
