Ash From Chaos - Reverse Glass Gilding
- Apr 27
- 2 min read
A Collaboration with Joe Corré
We were invited to contribute to Ash From Chaos, a project by Joe Corré, creator of the original Cash From Chaos concept and son of Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren. The centrepiece of the installation is a glass coffin featuring a replica of McLaren’s death mask surrounded by gold‑leaf lettering that reworks iconic punk slogans.
Our role focused on the reverse glass gilding, creating the gilded text and details that appear across the coffin and accompanying panels. The work was showcased at Lazinc Gallery in Mayfair as part of a wider installation, which included film footage transitioning from the burning of punk memorabilia to scenes of waste and environmental decline.
Reverse Glass Gilding with Gold Leaf
We applied 24 carat gold leaf to the glass panels, creating crisp, reflective lettering that contrasts with the darker tones of the installation.
The project reflects Corré’s ongoing commentary on punk culture, legacy, and consumerism — themes echoed in the gilded slogans.
Early sketches explored different compositions and lettering treatments before finalising the layout for the coffin panels.
Each phrase was hand‑gilded in reverse on glass, maintaining sharp edges and a clean finish despite the distressed visual language of the artwork. We produced several variations and supporting pieces, all using traditional gilding techniques to achieve a bright, uncompromising gold surface.
The coffin combines the gilded lettering with the cast death mask, forming the central object of the installation.
The completed work was exhibited at Lazinc Gallery, offered for sale with a reserve price of £6m and featured in coverage by The Guardian, Dazed, and WWD.
Get in Touch
If you’re exploring the possibilities of reverse glass gilding, gold‑leaf signage, or bespoke hand‑crafted decorative glass for your own project, our studio would be delighted to discuss your ideas. We specialise in creating tailored designs for private residences, retail spaces, and luxury interiors, with every piece crafted by hand in our London workshop.
Get in touch with Bondar Studios to start a conversation about bringing your decorative vision to life.
