Gold Leaf Restoration :: Restoration Work

Gold Leaf Restoration specializes in the conservation of picture frames, antiques and historical architecture. We strengthen structural elements and joinery, reattach loose or fabricate missing ornamentation, and consolidate gesso to prevent further deterioration of the finish. Restoration and cosmetic repairs are made with regard to our recommendations for historic accuracy and the client's desires. In general, the processes used in the repair areas are the same as those used on the original finish. We subscribe to the American Institute of Conservation's Code of Ethics, and take our responsibility to historical accuracy and preservation seriously.

Restoration projects range from fully gilded or parcel gilt picture and mirror frames, to clocks, furniture, musical instruments, architectural elements, and more. We are able to reproduce specialty paint finishes such as tortoise, Japanning, marbles, and others; giving us many tools with which to restore antiques.

"My clients thank you and I thank you for your fabulous restoration of antique gilded frames. As an Architectural Interior Designer the key to a successful project is one's sources...you have made my list of the top ten of old-world technique craftspeople! In addition, I so enjoyed my two-day hands-on class...my frames hang prominently in my studio with a newfound respect for the detail needed to restore and create magnificent pieces of art."

— Sachson Group via Citysearch.com

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8 FOOT AMERICAN PIER MIRROR, CIRCA 1875: This composition ornament piece has come to us clogged with many layers of paint.

8 FOOT AMERICAN PIER MIRROR, CIRCA 1875: Here we're beginning to water gild the frame body after removing the overpaints, and applying ochre and red clay coatings for the leaf.

19TH CENTURY VENETIAN MIRROR FRAME: Partially disassembled, showing the silver foil backing on wood support, the glass pieces and the wire used in attaching the glass. Many pieces of glass were broken or missing.

19TH CENTURY VENETIAN MIRROR FRAME: After cleaning, casting the missing glass pieces in an optically clear epoxy, and re-assembly.

1870S SILVER LEAFED PICTURE FRAME: The gesso losses have been replaced. The finish in the cove area, some of the sides, and much of the inner frame are left intact. All repair areas are toned to match the remaining original finish.

1870S SILVER LEAFED PICTURE FRAME: This frame is entirely leafed with silver leaf, burnished and matte, with the cove imitating the carved fluting of a Federal style frame. The cove area retains the original de-waxed shellac, which brings the silver to an 18K color. The striping is a stenciled bronze powder paint, which has oxidized. This photo shows the shellac already removed from the frame body in preparation for gesso and silver leaf repair.

A PAIR OF FLORENTINE PORTRAIT FRAMES: Two small hand carved frames were missing gesso and their spandrel liners were cracked and bowed. Here after repairs, we're re-gilding in a 23K water gild.

A PAIR OF FLORENTINE PORTRAIT FRAMES: On both of the finished frames, the leaf color has been deepened, and areas of leaf rubbed to expose the gray clay.

SIDE TABLE, PITTOCK MANSION, PORTLAND PARK BUREAU, PORTLAND, OREGON: Fully restored and re-gilded in a 23K oil gild and 23K water gilt highlights.