The frame’s carved details can be lost when gesso is applied, so it is often necessary to carve back the gesso layer with small tools to redefine or augment the ornamentation. This technique is known as recutting or tooling. Perfected by the French, recutting was used on frames with finely carved surfaces dating to the 18th century and earlier. Sometimes early frame makers also added decoration to the gesso, which often took the form of cross-hatching or punchwork. Another ornamentation technique that incorporates gesso is pastiglia, which was especially popular during the Italian Renaissance, when frame makers applied liquid gesso in layers to create low-relief decoration. Conservators and frame makers still practice today all of these techniques, both in restoring period frames and in creating new frames.

  

Gesso is highly sensitive to changes in climate and can shrink, flake, or crack if exposed to cycles of excessive heat, cold, humidity, or dryness. Follow these guidelines for proper care of your gilt frames:

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• Store your gilt framed artwork in a stable environment with as few fluctuations in relative humidity and temperature as possible. Avoid storing gilded frames in places like a damp basement or hot attic.

• Check antique gilded surfaces regularly for cupping or cracking on the surface.

• When it comes to cleaning an antique gilded frame, never use a moist cloth. Even gentle use of a soft dry cloth can cause damage to fragile surfaces. Avoid do-it-yourself cleaning methods. When it is time to clean your gilt framed art always bring it to a conservator for professional cleaning.

• Damage to the gesso layer can also occur when moving a frame. Seek professional assistance from fine art service providers who have the skills and experience to safely pack, crate, transport, and install diverse artworks.

 

It is worth noting that artists, too, have long used gesso as a primer for paintings. This gesso, however, is not the same as that used for gilding frames: it contains less glue to facilitate adhesion of the paint and to allow for more flexibility when applied to a canvas support. The use of gesso in paintings dates as far back as ancient Egypt and became common in Medieval and Renaissance panel paintings. In the 20th century artists began to use acrylic gesso—versus the traditional, rabbit-skin glue composition that is still used for gilding—because its ingredients allow for even greater flexibility on canvases and other non-wood surfaces, making them less susceptible to cracking.

 

Do you need help conserving or transporting your gilt framed art? Learn about Lowy’s fine art conservation and handling services.

 

Have other questions or concerns? Contact us.