Wondering how long gold leaf is going to last in an interior or applied to an exterior surface is a perfectly valid question when discussing such a valuable material as gold. By better understanding the historical use of gold leaf as well as the proper gilding process, one may better understand the precedence of application as well as the factors for ensuring durability.
Since the ancient Egyptians, gold leaf has been applied to furniture and building construction to emphasize sacredness, wealth, or power. In all its uses, gold leaf glitters and gleams, capturing the attention while impressing the viewer with the importance of a building, interior, or object. Many recovered artifacts from thousands of years ago still retain their gold leaf applications to this day. The gilded Coffin of Nedjemankh, which dates between 150-50 BC, was previously on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and recently returned to the Egyptian government. It is an excellent example of gilding durability. With an incomparable intrinsic, aesthetic, and symbolic value, gold leaf proves to offer surprising long-term durability and quality.
Coffin of Nedjemankh
However, proper application is crucial to achieving long-term durability. Purity of the gold, environmental conditions, and the gilding process will all have an effect on the sustainability of the gold leaf. Gold leafing refers to the process of applying very thin sheets of 23-karat gold to a surface. In order to ensure a quality application, the surface must be properly prepared and stripped of all coatings. Debris locked between the substrate and the gold leaf can cause premature deterioration. Once the substrate is free of all blemishes, gilding is begun using either an oil or water adhesive mixture. For exterior work, only oil size is used. It goes without saying that indoor gilding applications are preserved for longer periods of time due to protection from weather conditions. Careful attention and cleanliness during the gilding process will ensure long-lasting, brilliant results.
Though imitation leaf may be less expensive, gold leaf is more resistant to oxidation and corrosion than the alternatives. Especially when considering exterior gilding, the purest gold leaf combined with proper surface preparation and application will offer the greatest longevity against the elements. While imitation gold will tarnish, exterior gilding can retain its brilliance for decades.
Mellon Auditorium, Washington DC
Though more expensive, gold leaf is typically the more durable option in comparison to the alternatives. Protected from the elements as well as regular wear and tear, interior gilding properly applied can last for centuries. Due to direct exposure to the elements, exterior gilding typically lasts 25-40 years. Not only is gold leaf the more impressive and beautiful choice of gilding applications, but in many cases, gold is also the more durable and sustainable option for long-term quality
