What did a goldbeater do?

[Kevinshouse]

I have recently found out that one of my husbands ancestors was a goldbeater, could anyone tell me what exactly this man would have done? 
Kind regards Susan

[madpants]

goldbeater, gold-beater -- (an Artisan1.) Craftsman, artisan, journeyman, artificer -- (a skilled worker who practices some trade or handicraft)

artisan who beats gold into gold leaf)

The ancient occupation of the "Gold Beater" was one who flattened out gold nuggets by hammering them in between the outside membrane of the large intestine from an Ox (known as Goldbeater skin) to produce the gold leaf used in decorative gilding. The adhesive used to attach this metal to paper or plaster, in ancient times and still today, is... egg whites!

[Kevinshouse]

Thank you so much for your reply madpants it seems like this was quite a skilled job.
Kind regards Susan

[nameless]

I have a feeling that someone on WDYTYA had an ancestor who did that.  Sorry can't remember who it was.    They had to be well-trusted because of the value and I think they joined a guild.  Perhaps there would be more information on guild records?

[Steve G]

Would that be the " Guild of Gold Gilders " ?

Sorry. I'll close the door on my way out ..... 

[nameless]

Would that be the " Guild of Gold Gilders " ?

Sorry. I'll close the door on my way out ..... 

Tongue twister?

I think it was Patsy Kensitt's ancestor.

[jams]

Patsy and my 5th great granfather. There is a place you can go and look up letters from guild. Can't think of it right now.

[Kevinshouse]

A big thank you to all who replied to my request.  It seems as if a goldbeater was a highly skillful occupation.
Kind regards Susan