(Alexandra Heyes-( Detail after Ingres 1808)

Alexandra uses a technique called water-gilding for many of her frames. This is a process

which takes time and skill.

The first part of the process requires each frame to have eight layers of white gesso which is made freshly and applied by hand while warm, then carefully sanded in between layers to an extremely smooth finish. The second stage involves applying four layers of red bole (a clay based pigment) which is applied like watercolor to each frame. This is then finally burnished with steel wool ready for gilding.

Water gilding takes extreme patience as each loose leaf of gold is so fine that the slightest air movement can crumple it or blow it away. The gold leaf is applied with a gilders tip made out of squirrel bristle. After all the sheets are applied the frame is then burnished to either a bright shine or made mat by the application of a stearic acid and tempera medium.

The frame around the ‘Baignuese de Valpincion’ after Ingres has an extra addition of Italian punch work which is done by hand.

‘Baigneuse de Valpinçon Jaune’

(Alexandra Heyes-( Detail after Ingres 1808)

Oil on gesso panel, 340 x 400 mm with Italian period frame

in 22 ct water gilded with gold punch work

$4500.00