Gold and silver leaf

The art of applying gold or silver leaf to decorative objects, including lacquer ware, is  known as gilding. Goldbeating is the term applied to the process of pounding gold into  leaves.

It dates back to antiquity. Silver beating developed later. Today the process of producing gold and silver leaf is largely mechanized, with many of the machines duplicating the movement of the human arm.

Gilding is a delicate and exacting process. First the surface is primed, using flat paints,  lacquers, or sealing glues. Next it is sized. While the size is still tacky to the touch, individual leaves are laid onto the surface using a gilder's tip. This is a fine camel hair  brush set in a thin cardboard folder. The leaf is held to the tip by static electricity generated by gently rubbing the tip against  the gilder's hair. Utmost care must be taken. The slightest breath can send the leaf   flying. Once the gilding is complete the leaf covered surface is burnished to a high lustre  using surgical grade cotton.

Wood molds are the preferred  core for lacquer ware, though wickerwork, leather and  textile can also be used. The imparted shape bespeaks its utility implement, vessel, furniture, etc. Its ornamentation is unique to the creator. Decorative motifs, from the  most intricate to more sober patterns, are drawn and transferred by hand on to the  receptacle. These are inlaid with gold and silver leaf, Mother of pearl, seashell, and fine  powder pigments, according to the specifications of the design.

The Chinese are thought to have passed the technique of lacquer making on to the Koreans. The Koreans, in their turn, perfected the art of inlaid lacquer, considered now to be largely a Korean specialty. Inlaid lacquer is produced by pasting cut inlay material in place with a thick coat of lacquer. Numerous layers of lacquer and special glue are then applied until the inlay is completely concealed. The surface is polished with whetstone and charcoal until the inlaid design is distinctly revealed. Then the whole piece is burnished with surgical grade cloth bringing the lacquer and its inlay up to a high gloss.

Care suggestions

Car polish can be used to maintain your lacquer ware. Apply a small amount and use a very soft cloth to clean and polish the lacquered surface. If car polish is not available, do not use any other chemical agent! Please use a very   slightly damp, soft cloth to clean and polish the lacquered surface.
Do not expose your product to direct sunlight, submerge in water, or subject it to any  chemicals whatsoever. While no immediate damage may be visible, the health and lasting beauty of your lacquer ware product will be compromised.