Viennese Craftsmanship - The Tradition of Gold Leaf.
There are six workshops across Europe, two of which are in Austria – one in Vienna and one in Schwechat.
Gold leaf is much more than a sign of wealth; it combines craftsmanship with tradition and gives objects timeless beauty. It has been a symbol of luxury, durability, and artistic expression for millennia. In Vienna, this precious material is still crafted to the highest standards and used in architecture and restoration, as well as in art (Klimt).
Some of the most impressive buildings and artworks with gilded elements include:
- Secession Building: The iconic golden dome made of gilded laurel leaves shapes the cityscape.
- Karlskirche: The baroque splendor is highlighted by gold-adorned columns and dome details.
- Schönbrunn PalaceNumerous interiors, including the Hall of Mirrors, are decorated with gold leaf.
- Hofburg & Sisi Museum: Gilded furniture, stucco work, and mirrors emphasize imperial grandeur.
- Vienna State OperaThe grand rooms and boxes are richly decorated with gold leaf.
- Austrian National Library: The State Hall impresses with gilded ceilings and frescoes, as well as the figure program on the roof.
- Johann Strauss Monument in Stadtpark: The world-famous gilded statue attracts numerous visitors.
- Works by Gustav Klimt in his "Golden Period" (1901–1909)
The History of Gold Leaf
The production of gold leaf dates back over 5000 years and has its origins in India. From there, the craft spread through Egypt, Greece, and Rome to Central Europe. From the Middle Ages, gold leaf was mainly produced in monasteries before being taken over by secular craftsmen.
The production reached its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries when it was used for magnificent churches, palaces, and artworks. Today, significant centers of gold leaf production are in Germany, Italy, France – and Austria.
The History of Gold Leaf
Gold leaf is created through elaborate processing of precious metals. From one kilogram of fine gold, up to 70,000 sheets of gold with a total area of 400 square meters can be produced. The final product has a thickness of only 1/8000 millimeter – about 500 times thinner than a human hair.
The production process begins with melting the alloy. Gold is mixed with silver and copper to create different shades. The metal is then rolled and annealed multiple times to reduce it to a few millimeters thick. This is followed by the beating of the gold, where it is stretched further with special hammers in several stages until it reaches its final thinness. Finally, the ultra-thin gold sheets are cut on a leather cushion and carefully packed in silk paper booklets.
After the elaborate production, gold leaf is used in various areas. In art and restoration, it gives icons, picture frames, and monuments a unique radiance. In architecture, it decorates buildings and sculptures while providing protection against weather influences. It is also used in culinary and cosmetics – edible gold leaf enhances exclusive dishes, while it adds special accents in luxurious skincare products. In religious contexts, it symbolizes divinity and immortality and adorns churches and temples worldwide
Gold leaf has fascinated for centuries with its elegance and versatility. Despite its delicate nature, it is a symbol of durability and value, appreciated in many areas to this day.
