Bert Müller Goldradierung Hinterglasradierung Gold engraving

Gold etching, also known as reverse glass etching, French Verre églomisé,
is a handicraft technique in which the reverse side of a glass surface is covered with gold leaf, preferably gold leaf, but also other metal foils. Subsequently, as with graphic techniques, ornamental or figurative motifs are removed, scraped or Scratching away the metal layer. Finally, a coloured background of the finished gold etching is applied.

My first contact with this charming but quite rare technique came about through my collaboration in the reconstruction of the interior decoration of the Green Vault in the Dresden Residence Palace between 2004 and 2006. Since the first half of the 18th century in the so-called “Jewel Room" all wall surfaces with gold etchings, which were lost after the destruction of the ensemble at the end of the 2nd century World War II. After this extensive work I had the opportunity to work on some private orders until I was allowed to carry out reconstructive additions to gold-engraved mirror frames from the time around 1700 in the period from 2016 to 2018. These pieces of outstanding quality were originally intended for the court of Louis XIV, of the Sun King, and came into Saxon possession through the art trade of the time. Today they can be seen in the restored parade chambers of August the Strong.

My work so far has been in a historical context, but I am also interested in modern design solutions. I work on your orders together with you, and implement your personal ideas. However, I would also be happy to submit my own suggestions, both on the basis of a comprehensive collection of predominantly baroque models, and my own creative and technological experience.