Jain Miniature Paintings from Western India c9.s8.13

c9.s8.13

According to the *Silparatna* gold-leaves were at first reduced to very tiny pieces, and then mixed with the sand and water they were thoroughly levigated in a smooth stone mortar. After the gold leaves were reduced to powder, it was put in a glass cup and the sand and dust removed by the washing process. When the powder was cleaned of all impurities, it was ready to be used with the glue. After the application of gold, the surface was burnished with a boar’s tusk to impart it a glossiness.