How do I identify a true period piece?

Examine the construction methods, tool marks on the wood, and the ageing of the gesso beneath the gold leaf. Eighteenth-century pieces display hand-cut joinery and wear patterns consistent with extended use. Revival pieces from the nineteenth century often utilise machine-sawn timber or different assembly techniques while copying earlier design vocabularies.

Can I use these chairs for daily dining?

Many of these chairs served as formal salon or occasional seating rather than heavy dining furniture. While sturdy examples function well around a dining table, their delicate carved arms and antique silk textiles require careful handling. Consider the structural stability of the frame and the durability of the upholstery before assigning them to high-traffic domestic environments.

What is the difference between giltwood and gold paint?

Giltwood involves applying extremely thin sheets of genuine gold leaf over a prepared gesso and bole ground. This method reflects light with a deep, varied metallic warmth that develops a soft patina over centuries. Gold paint consists of metallic powder suspended in a medium, resulting in a flat, uniform surface lacking the dimensional depth of true leaf.

How should I care for antique gilding?

Keep gilded furniture away from direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and sudden temperature fluctuations that can cause the gesso and wood to crack. Dust the surfaces very gently with a soft, dry brush without applying liquid cleaning products. Avoid abrasive cloths or commercial polishes which can strip away fragile historic gold leaf.