Restoration and Gilding

GOLD LEAF GILDING

Jerome Feig found a need for gold leaf gilding with traditional materials in the Detroit area in the mid 1980's. There was nowhere to go to have a frame repaired properly. Picture frames were mostly made from production length moulding. As a result Mr. Feig sought out the finest experts in America to learn the almost lost techniques of gold leaf gilding. In 1987 he took his first workshop with William Adair of Washington D.C. He was hooked from then on. One workshop after another was sought out. He is a charter member of the Society of Gilders, an organization founded by William Adair to perpetuate the skills of the craft. Mr. Feig has sat on the board of directors of this organization since 1998.

Through many workshops and uncounted hours of practicing the craft, Mr. Feig has become proficient in gilding by the traditional water gilding method, as well as with the oil (mordant) gilding method. Traditional water gilding can be burnished to a bright polish with agate burnishes’ and oil gilding can withstand the elements of being outside. Antique tones can be applied to simulate most any style used over the ages. The ultra thin metal leaf sheets are made of various alloys of real gold, silver and palladium. Also used are thicker sheets of aluminum, copper and brass. The brass sheets are sometimes called Dutch Metal, shlag metal, or Metal Leaf.

Picture frames can be created from a drawing and transformed into a finished work of art. Picture frames, musical instruments and other gilded objects can be cleaned and restored. Missing ornamentation can be recarved, replaced or recreated. Minor losses can be filled in. Stabilization of existing materials can also be handled.

Past projects include repairing old picture frames, making new picture frames and mirrors from raw lumber, decorating musical instruments, gilding ceilings and cornices in homes, and gilding lamps.

This painting is undergoing a painstaking test cleaning. Note the light areas that have allready been cleaned.

Painting and Frame Restoration

Since the 1970's Field Art Studio has offered professional restoration services by expertly trained individuals. Areas of specialization include the handling of paintings and gilded objects. Paintings can be cleaned, varnished, relined and restretched. Holes and tears can be repaired. Paint losses can be inpainted.

Paper and textile treatment for the most part is limited to minor treatments. If extensive services are required Field Art Studio will rely on qualified personnel affiliated with the studio.