Selhamin Clay
Selhamin Burnishing Clay (Poliment) is a traditional gilding clay made in Germany, developed for use in classic water gilding techniques. Also known as bole, this clay is an essential component in achieving a true burnished finish with gold or silver leaf. Applied in multiple thin layers over a properly prepared gesso ground, Selhamin clay creates the smooth, absorbent surface necessary for polishing and burnishing to a high, mirror-like gloss.
Selhamin burnishing clay is available in both traditional dry cone and convenient premixed paste forms. The dry cone format follows historic preparation methods, requiring the clay to be crushed, mixed with water into a slurry, screened, and then combined with a binder such as rabbit skin glue. For ease of use, the premixed version eliminates these initial steps, offering a ready-to-use paste while maintaining the performance and characteristics of traditional bole.
Offered in a range of classic oxide and earth tones, Selhamin clays are designed to complement various shades and alloys of gold and silver leaf. These underlying colors subtly influence the final appearance of the gilded surface, enhancing warmth and depth. Specially formulated options, such as Selhamin blue clay, are designed to minimize the risk of discoloration when working with silver leaf, ensuring a clean and stable finish.
