Expand Menu
Close Menu
Back
Architectural Gilding
Home | What's Going On | Blog

Architectural Gilding

We recently received an issue of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation magazine that mentions the restoration of the CT Old State House cupola restoration. John Canning & Co. had a hand in restoring both the interior of the Old State House and restoring the Cupola.

Gilding the dome of the cupola, or any exterior gilding, is no easy task. It is a battle against the elements and takes care and patience.  A major factor in exterior gilding is the prep work that goes into assuring the surface of the dome or architectural element is properly stripped, sanded and primed for the application of the gold. It is also important to make sure the size, or “glue”, that adheres the gold leaf must be at optimal tack. 23.75 karat gold leave is then applied and burnished to reveal a glistening finish. If done incorrectly, instead of the lasting decades, the gold would start to deteriorate at a much faster pace and the process would then have to be repeated.

Architectural gilding is seen all over the US and these icons become symbols of a city or town’s character. We understand the importance of these symbols and take great care in gilding them properly and efficiently. Here are a few examples of projects we’ve had the opportunity to work on, which include the CT Old State house, Milford Town HallSan Francisco City Hall, and Prometheus. Enjoy!

 

Canning C

May 22, 2015

Featured Projects

CT Old State House

Connecticut Old State House – Gold Leaf Gilding

John Canning & Co. applied traditional gold leaf and gilding on the Charles Bulfinch dome and Lady Justice statue atop Connecticut’s Old State House.

Milford Town Hall NF

Milford Town Hall

John Canning & Co. performed gilding to the dome and weathervane at the Milford, CT Town Hall.

San Francisco City Hall Gold Leaf Gilding Restoration

Our skilled restoration team used traditional gold leaf and gilding methods and materials to restor the exterior roof on San Francisco’s City Hall.

Rockefeller Center Gilding Feature

Prometheus Fountain Gold Leaf Restoration

We restored the Prometheus Statue, a National Historic Landmark located in Rockefeller Center using gold leaf gilding.

John Canning & Co.'s Art of Exterior Gilding and Domes Resource
John Canning & Co. Resources

As a conservation studio and restoration contractor, our team of highly skilled craftsmen, artisans, and conservators are experienced in the use of traditional methods and materials. We understand the importance in sharing our expertise and knowledge in our field.

Check Out Our Art of Exterior Gilding & Domes Guide