The art of gilding: an effect of elegance and beauty on metal
Gilding is one of the delicate and precious Iranian arts in which beautiful designs are created on metal surfaces by using thin gold sheets. This art has been noticed for a long time due to its brilliance and special elegance, and it has been used in making ornaments, dishes and decorative objects.
History of gilding in Iran
Gilding in Iran has a long history and has been used in making ornaments and decorative objects since ancient times. With the arrival of Islam in Iran, this art was influenced by Islamic art, and geometrical designs, plants and Kufi lines are abundantly seen in it. In different historical periods, gilding in Iran reached its peak and unique works of Iranian artists have remained.
Procedures for gilding
Gold plating is a complex process that requires high precision and skill. The main stages of gilding are:
- Preparation of the metal surface: the metal surface is first cleaned and smoothed.
- Designing the design: the desired design is placed on the metal surface.
- Creating grooves: using special tools, very thin grooves are created on the surface of the metal.
- Placing the gold sheet: thin gold sheets are placed inside the grooves.
- Polishing: Using polishing tools, the work surface becomes smooth and shiny.
Tools used in gilding
To carry out gilding, various tools are used, such as pens, hammers, anvils, emery stones, and all kinds of pens.
Applications of gilding
Gilded objects have a variety of uses, including: - Jewelry: necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings
- Dishes: cups, bowls, plates and other decorative dishes
- Decorative objects: mirrors and candlesticks, small boxes and other decorative objects
- Weapons: swords, daggers and other cold weapons
The importance of gold plating in Iran
Gold plating is of special importance in Iran. This art is not only a valuable cultural heritage, but as a handicraft, it plays an important role in creating employment and economic prosperity. Also, gilding as a living art is still evolving and innovating, and contemporary artists create new and creative works inspired by traditional designs and techniques.