Ornamental Sculpture

Rameux Gonzalez's skills woodcarving and ornamental sculpture is rooted in a rich familial tradition, having learned these skills beginning in childhood and later working alongside his father. Their collaborative efforts began with extensive work on Chippendale mirror frame design, where Rameux honed his craftsmanship by learning the foundation of ornament and draftsmanship of these ornate pieces. This early experience provided a foundation for Rameux's later endeavors in restoration and sculpture.

One of Rameux's notable collaborations with his father Ray Gonzalez was the restoration of the Queen's Beasts for Windsor Castle, a project that demanded precision and expertise in historical restoration. This experience, along with subsequent work on notable restoration projects such as the Music Room in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and various stately homes, solidified Rameux's reputation as a skilled conservator with an acute understanding of period-specific design and craftsmanship.

Building upon his restoration background, Rameux transitioned into sculpting the King's Beasts for the Royal Gardens at Hampton Court in London. This endeavor showcased his ability to translate historical motifs into three-dimensional sculptures, bringing to life the regal heritage of the Royal Gardens through his meticulous woodcarving and sculptural techniques. Rameux's journey from restoration to sculpture reflects a lifelong dedication to preserving and celebrating architectural history, culminating in works that adorn prestigious landmarks and royal gardens with timeless elegance and artistic integrity. His evolution as an artisan underscores the importance of traditional craftsmanship in contemporary conservation and design practices.

Click above to explore a fascinating journey into the restoration of the iconic Heraldic King's Beasts, carved in English oak,
for Hampton Court Gardens in London.

In this exclusive video presentation, we delve into the meticulous process of recreating and revitalising these historic sculptures and garden, each representing a symbol of royal heraldry and tradition. The King's Beasts, originally commissioned for the Field of Cloth of Gold in 1520, stood as majestic guardians at Hampton Court Gardens but only remained recorded in paintings and description from the time . The re-created beasts are crafted from English oak, these heraldic beasts embody the rich history and cultural heritage of the Tudor era, bearing intricate details that showcase the craftsmanship of their time. Commissioned during the partnership of master sculptors at G&H Studios this restoration project honours the legacy of these iconic sculptures. With over 30 years of expertise in wood carving and restoration, Rameux brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the meticulous task of breathing new life into these historic treasures.

In this presentation above, we'll be exploring the art of ornamental carving for restoration projects in stately homes, and its relevance to interior designers, architects, and private collectors.

Explore the intricate craftsmanship and historical significance of ornamental carving, showcasing its vital role in preserving the architectural heritage of grand estates.
Whether you're seeking inspiration for a historic renovation, looking to enhance contemporary interiors with timeless accents, or aiming to acquire bespoke pieces for private collections, this video will illuminate the beauty and versatility of ornamental carving as a timeless art form. Join me for a view of a selection of commissioned pieces over the years, as we uncover the artistry behind these exquisite creations and explore their enduring appeal in the world of design and restoration.

Gilding commissions
Traditional water gilding, oil gilding, and modern acrylic gilding with 22.4 carat gold represent distinct techniques with unique characteristics and applications in the realm of gilding.
Water gilding, a centuries-old method, involves applying thin sheets of gold leaf onto a surface treated with layers of water-based adhesive, resulting in a brilliant, lustrous finish prized for its depth and richness.
Oil gilding, another traditional technique, utilizes an oil-based size to affix gold leaf, offering greater durability and ease of application compared to water gilding. In contrast, acrylic gilding with 22.4 carat gold introduces a contemporary approach by utilising acrylic-based mediums and adhesives, providing versatility, quicker drying times, and enhanced compatibility with modern materials and surfaces. Each method showcases the timeless allure of gilding while catering to different artistic preferences and project requirements, embodying a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in decorative arts.

The restoration of the music room at the Victoria and Albert Museum was a meticulous and inspiring endeavor.
Over several months, skilled artisans and conservators worked tirelessly to revive the room to its former glory, meticulously restoring intricate details of the paneling, delicate plasterwork, and exquisite furnishings. The room, originally from Norfolk House in London, showcases 18th-century craftsmanship at its finest.
Now, visitors can step back in time and experience the opulence and elegance of this period, surrounded by the harmonious blend of music and artistry that defines the museum's commitment to preserving cultural heritage. The restoration stands as a testament to the museum's dedication to conserving historical treasures for future generations to cherish and enjoy.

Traditional and Modern Gilding: Rameux offers a spectrum of gilding techniques for interior and exterior architectural elements, utilising both traditional gold leaf and modern gilding methods. From ornate ceilings to intricate details, Rameux's gilding enhances spaces with opulence and sophistication.

Castings for Heritage Preservation: Rameux's expertise extends to creating ornamental plaster and modern acrylic polymer castings, essential for the restoration and replication of ornate ceilings and architectural elements in heritage buildings. These castings preserve the grandeur of the past while adapting to contemporary restoration needs.

By entrusting your projects to Rameux Gonzalez, you not only gain access to exceptional craftsmanship but also contribute to the preservation of history and the continuation of classical skills that define our cultural heritage. Join Rameux in celebrating the artistry of the past and shaping the future of craftsmanship.