Gilding Brush

This very traditional type of brush is also called “Gilder’s Tip”, “Mop Brush” or “Gilder’s Duster”. It is the most essential tool for gilding. Prior to lifting the gold or silver leaf off the cushion with the tip, the gilder moves the brush over the palm of his hand. This will slightly oil the brush and helps it hold the delicate leaf of metal. The gold or silver leaf is then attached to the prepared workpiece with a soft squirrel or goat hair mop. This work step is called “dusting”.

This brush type traditionally comes in a quill. Sometimes the quill also serves as a handle. Some Duster brushes are attached to wooden handles. The Quill however can be natural or synthetic and sometimes is replaced by a plastic ferrule.