GOLD AND ART
One of the main uses of gold leaf is decorative-ornamental use. There are different possibilities of use of which only some important and suggestive examples are given here.
The Phra Si Ratana Chedi is a golden stupa built in the 19th century in the style of Sri Lanka which contains ashes of Buddha. This magnificent building is located in Wat Phra Kaew within the Grand Palace.
[Thailand].
Finally, two examples of the application of gold leaf in glassworks carried out by Italian master glassmakers are reported. These works vary from vases to chandeliers, necklaces to decorative objects.
La Madonnina, large statue of the Virgin located on the main spire of Milan Cathedral. The statue was cast in 1774 by the goldsmith Bini on a model by Giuseppe Perego and covered with gold leaf. In the 1960s, for the last complete restoration, 6,740 gold sheets were needed.
[Italy]
Another wide use of gold leaf is linked to their application on picture or mirror frames, especially if antique, to give them importance and splendor.
GOLD AND BEAUTY
Science has allowed us to discover that gold has the particular effect of cell regeneration. Hence the birth and development of anti-wrinkle treatments using specific creams or masks with the application of gold leaf on the body and in particular on the face.
A series of 24kt or 23kt gold cosmetic products, edible in order to avoid side effects on the skin, have been created to shine and bring out beauty.
For a more discreet effect, there is the perfume containing the chopped gold leaf. During the spraying of the perfume, even small particles of gold are expelled, which gives shine to the application area.
GOLD IN THE KITCHEN
One of the most famous and well-known recipes with gold is the risotto “Milanese” with saffron created by Gualtiero Marchesi.
Another unique product is this special paste made with gold crumbs and a black cuttlefish flavor.
Another use of gold or silver leaf reduced to crumbs or powder is found in the decoration of chocolate. The small, bright yellow parts of the gold are particularly highlighted on the dark background of the chocolate, giving even more importance to this sweet temptation.
The art of confectionery is rich in examples of possible uses of gold leaf, crumbs and powder. Here is an example of a chocolate cake made by a renowned Italian pastry chef: the “5 tastes”, a cake prepared with 5 layers of different types of fine chocolate decorated with leaves and gold crumbs.