The process was developed during the first half of the 19th century and became commercially viable in the 1840's, and was already being described (as Voltaic Gilding) in Cooley's Encyclopaedia of 1845. It is the most common technique used to gild other metals in the 20th century.

Who created gilding?

The History of Gold Leaf Gilding

Although it remains significant to this day, gilding is an age-old technique. The process is believed to have originated in Turkey more than 8,000 years ago, and was commonly used by the ancient Egyptians, the Phoenecians, and eventually the early Europeans.

When was gold leaf first used?

Around 400 A.D., gold leaf began to be applied to the letters, borders, and figures in illuminated manuscripts in Constantinople, Ireland, and Italy.