There is very little written concerning the origins of imitation gold leaf.
I am of the opinion that it probably originated during the industrial era. It was during this time that a new middle class was emerging and creating a demand for cheaper work.
There are many examples of 19th century gilded picture frames which employed Dutch metal leaf.
A catalogue from the Great Exhibition of 1851 listed several suppliers of 23 carat gold leaf and Dutch metal leaf.
The alloys used in the production of this golden leaf do not have anything like the malleability of genuine gold, I am certain some form of mechanical or hydraulic press would be needed to produce the leaf.
Dutch metal leaf is known by various names; Imitation gold leaf, composition gold leaf, Dutch gold and in Germany it is known as Schlagmetal.
The leaf comes in a range of different alloys which creates various shades.
No 1 Is a very deep red, composed of an alloy of 10% zinc and 90% copper.
No 2 Is a red/gold colour, composed of an alloy of 12% zinc and 88% copper.
No 2 ½ Has a colour similar to that of 22K gold leaf, an alloy composed of 15% zinc and 85% copper. This is the colour I recommend and use myself.
No 3 Is a yellow colour, composed of an alloy of 18% zinc and 82% copper.
These alloys when combined, closely resembles the fine appearance of genuine gold metals.
The thickness of the leaf is approximately 0.3 microns.
Each book of this golden leaf contains 25 leaves about 5 inches square.
When genuine gold leaf is used outside it has to be protected with a clear varnish, Dutch metal leaf is the same, it has to be protected with a lacquer to prevent it from tarnishing.
Imitation gold leaf is a very popular crafts material, it is the basis for a whole range of antique and distressed effects.
For 25 years Richard & Margaret Norman ran the Eden Workshops, a diverse system of workshops and studio, that practiced the most esoteric range of craft skills.
In 1994 the workshops were nominated a National Living Treasure for its contribution to the Book Arts.
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