Restoration of a Gilded & Black lacquer Torchere

This Regency Gilt & Black lacquer Torchere was in a poor state when I was asked to sensitively restore it. My client requested I restore damaged and discoloured areas to match the patina of the existing intact surfaces. 

The old gold paint had oxidised and turned it to a dull brown colour as you can see from the small base photo. Its quite an adventure doing this kind of work, as I never know what I will find under the paint. This object revealed some real gold intact, places where gold has been worn away by cleaning and many hidden damaged areas. After cleaning the old paint and dirt off I could then see which areas needed the restoration. 

The last two photos show repaired areas in white,  gessoed ready for the bole coat then gilding. 

Wherever Its possible I keep the original gilding and then match the new gold to the existing condition of the Torchere, keeping restoration to the minimum. All the finishes were traditional and in keeping with the period of the piece.