Gold Leaf Gilded Spirit of Ecstasy Statue
Gold LeafKensington Gilders were commissioned to apply gold leaf to a large-scale replica of the Spirit of Ecstasy, the iconic figurehead that has adorned the bonnet of every Rolls-Royce motor car since 1911. The original figure was sculpted by Charles Sykes and has become one of the most recognised symbols of luxury and craftsmanship in the world. This particular statue, standing several feet tall, was destined for a gallery display celebrating the Rolls-Royce heritage.
The gilding was carried out using 23.5 carat gold loose leaf applied with an oil-based size. A statue of this complexity presents very different challenges from flat or architectural surfaces. Every fold of the flowing robes, every feather of the outstretched wings, and the swept-back posture of the figure itself creates undercuts, deep recesses and sharply curved surfaces that the leaf must follow without tearing, bridging or leaving gaps.
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The preparation was critical. The statue was first brought to a smooth, sealed finish, with any imperfections filled and sanded back, because gold leaf is unforgiving: it conforms exactly to the surface beneath it and will highlight every flaw rather than conceal them. Multiple coats of primer and sealer were applied, with careful sanding between each coat.
Once the surface was ready, the gold size was brushed on in sections, working methodically around the figure. The leaf was laid while the size was at the correct tack, pressed into every detail with soft brushes and cotton wool, and any tears or missed areas were patched with additional leaf. The finished statue has a rich, warm gold surface that catches the light beautifully from every angle, giving it a presence that no paint or spray finish could match.
