Goldbeaters’ skin is a thin and delicate membrane made from the outer layer of the intestine of a young sheep. It was historically used as a type of parchment for gilding, a process of applying a thin layer of gold leaf onto a surface. The membrane was stretched over a frame, and the gold leaf was applied to the surface with a brush. The goldbeaters’ skin was then used to carefully press and smooth the gold leaf onto the surface, creating a smooth and even finish. The name goldbeaters’ skin comes from the fact that the membrane was traditionally used by goldbeaters, who were craftsmen that worked with gold leaf. The use of goldbeaters’ skin for gilding dates back to ancient Egypt, and it was commonly used in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Today, goldbeaters’ skin is still used in some traditional gilding techniques, but it has largely been replaced by synthetic materials such as gelatin or parchment paper. However, it is still valued by some gilders for its unique properties, such as its ability to absorb moisture and its flexibility.
gilding, gold leaf, sheep intestine, parchment, craftsmanship
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