A few years ago, when Perry sought out who he believed to be one of the top gilders in this country to do a restoration for one of his select client’s 18th century frame, he was appalled and infuriated by the result, as the result was a disaster. Now not only did the frame not have a patina, but this individual was incapable of recutting the gesso. Perry then tried one more gilder and had similar results. Hence, he then decided for the good of future clients, and to offer complete and competent restoration, he must become trained himself where gilding is still being practiced and taught as it was in the 17th and 18th centuries in France.

Perry spent 7 months studying under one of France’s top gilders in the Saint Antoine -Faubourg district. Six days a week he studied and practiced the French guilding details of art in gesso recutting(reparue), surface preparation, laying of 23 karat leaf, polychrome and most important patinization. Perry spent his days there practicing in authentic Louis 13th, 14th and 15th frames.

Now Perry offers classically trained French techniques for his clients in the US. He works on period frames, furniture and artifacts.