Silver leaf is a material used in the process of gilding, which involves applying thin sheets of silver to a surface to create a decorative finish. Despite its name, silver leaf is not made from pure silver, but rather an alloy—typically a combination of silver and other metals—that is beaten into extremely thin sheets. These sheets can be as thin as a few micrometers.
Silver leaf is often used in furniture making to add a luxurious and elegant finish to various pieces, such as cabinets, chairs, frames, and decorative objects. The application of silver leaf is a delicate process that requires skill and careful handling.
Here are the key points about silver leaf as it pertains to furniture:
Material Form: Silver leaf comes in booklets containing numerous individual sheets separated by tissue paper to prevent them from sticking together and to facilitate their application.
Application Method: The process of applying silver leaf is known as silver leafing or silver gilding. First, the furniture surface is prepared by sanding and applying a base coat, typically of a red or yellow color called "bole," which can enhance the reflective qualities of the silver leaf. Then an adhesive size, usually a slow-drying oil-based or water-based medium, is applied. Once the size becomes tacky, the silver leaf is carefully laid onto the surface.
: Gilders use various tools, such as gilding brushes and knives, to handle and cut the silver leaf. They apply the silver leaf by either laying it onto a surface or by pressing it using a gilder's tip (a specialized brush).
