---
title: "Goldwork"
description: "Goldwork is embroidery made with metal threads, gold or silver, usually laid on the surface and couched down."
type: Glossary
url: https://teazle.art/glossary/goldwork
published: 2026-10-14
updated: 2026-10-14
author: "The Teazle editors"
---

# Goldwork

*Goldwork is embroidery made with metal threads, gold or silver, usually laid on the surface and couched down.*

Goldwork uses threads of real or imitation gold and silver: wire wrapped around a silk core, flat strips, and coiled purls cut into short lengths. Because metal threads are stiff and precious, most are laid on the surface and [couched](https://teazle.art/glossary/couching.md) with fine silk. Padding underneath builds raised designs.

## Where is it seen?

Church vestments, military uniforms, heraldic and ceremonial textiles, and court dress.


## Sources

1. [Goldwork (AAT 300400718)](http://vocab.getty.edu/page/aat/300400718). Getty Art & Architecture Thesaurus
2. [Goldwork (Q1304791)](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1304791). Wikidata

Canonical: https://teazle.art/glossary/goldwork