Jain Miniature Paintings from Western India c9.s8.17

c9.s8.17

1. To prepare gold- or silver-powder to be used as ink or paint, gold- or silver-leaves were put one by one in a hard stone mortar and levigated with the help of clean *dhau-gum* solution. After the powder was ready, it was dissolved in sugared water and thoroughly stirred. When the gold-powder had settled at the bottom of the pot the water was slowly drained. This process was repeated several times till no trace of *dhau-gum* remained. After being dried, the powder was ready to be used.