Arched Frame Gilded with Gold Leaf – Museum-Grade Presentation for Sacred Artworks

23-04-2025

 

In the realm of sacred art, every element holds meaning. A frame is far more than mere decoration — it enhances the essence of a piece, highlighting its historical and spiritual value. At Karol Milwski's workshop, museum-grade frames are meticulously handcrafted using one of the world’s oldest gilding techniques: traditional water gilding. This method, known since Ancient Egypt — where it adorned the sarcophagus of Hekashepes in Saqqara — is revered for both its timeless beauty and exceptional durability.

Exclusivity, Longevity, Personalisation – Frames for True Connoisseurs

Genuine Gold Leaf – An Elegant, Uncompromising Choice

Each frame crafted by Karol Milwski is gilded with authentic gold leaf — no substitutes, no imitations. Clients can choose their preferred gold tone, from cool to warm hues, available in various alloys and leaf textures. These differ not only in colour, but also in structure and thickness. Additionally, the selection of bole — a traditional clay base applied beneath the gold — enhances its radiance and character, allowing for a bespoke finish tailored to the artwork’s needs.

Water Gilding – A Timeless Technique That Endures Generations

Water gilding is among the most esteemed and enduring gilding techniques, with roots tracing back to ancient civilisations and a continuous presence in European craftsmanship since the Middle Ages. It enables the creation of ultra-smooth, radiant surfaces that can be polished to a mirror-like sheen with an agate stone, or left with a refined, matte finish.

This technique does more than simply elevate the aesthetic — it ensures the frame’s longevity, making it ideal for artworks of significant spiritual and historical value. Frames made in this way resist the passage of time, preserving their beauty across generations.

Museum-Grade Craftsmanship – Traditional Mortise-and-Tenon Joinery

Each frame is assembled using traditional wooden mortise-and-tenon joints — no modern staples or mechanical fastenings. This method not only ensures structural stability but also complies with conservation standards upheld by museums. Time-tested and revered by master craftsmen for centuries, this technique remains the gold standard for high-value artistic framing.

Personalisation for Discerning Collectors

Partnering with Karol Milwski’s studio means more than simply purchasing a frame — it is a creative journey shaped through dialogue with the client. Every detail is thoughtfully tailored to the specific artwork, ensuring the frame becomes an integral part of the whole, harmonising with its message and style.

Karol Milewski Frames – Honouring Tradition and Artistic Heritage

Choosing a museum-grade frame gilded with genuine gold leaf means investing in both artistry and legacy. It is a statement of reverence for traditional craftsmanship and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage — a timeless gift, handed down through generations.