Mirror Mirror

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Unfortunately this late 19th Century gilt mirror had suffered severe damage during a house move.  The plaster ribbon decoration was crushed and various gesso detail around the edge missing.

The damaged ribbon detail was sculpted by hand using a special putty. Care was taken to retain as much of the original as possible. 

Moulds were taken from remaining detail and plaster casts made to replace the missing pieces.

Many fine layers of clay bole was then applied ready for the gold leaf. 

The bole was water gilded with gold leaf and burnished to a high shine.

Finally, the gold leaf was patinated to match the rest of the mirror.