Gold and silver leaf art refers to the practice of applying thin sheets of metal leaf (usually gold or silver) to a surface as a decorative element. This technique is often used in traditional art forms such as gilding, iconography, and manuscript illumination. The leaf is typically applied to a surface that has been coated with a size, or adhesive, and then burnished to create a smooth, reflective surface. The process is delicate and requires a steady hand and a good eye for detail. It is also used in contemporary art and design for a shimmering effect.