SEBASTIAAN VAN SOEST (NL)

Master craftsman preserving the Dutch gilded-leather tradition

Sebastiaan van Soest is one of the last remaining masters of the historic Dutch gilded-leather tradition - a craft once used in royal residences, churches and monumental interiors throughout Europe.

Working entirely by hand, Van Soest uses carved wooden tools, traditional pigments and pure silver leaf to create richly textured panels. His practice continues a lineage of craftsmanship dating back centuries, transforming gilded leather into contemporary artistic expression.

His work is defined by precision, patience and deep respect for heritage.

DUTCH GILDED LEATHER — FIVE SENSES 1640

For REVUSD, Sebastiaan van Soest created gilded-leather panels using Five Senses, a historic Dutch pattern from 1640 made by Maarten van de Heuvel, depicting touch, sight, sound, taste and smell woven into vines, flowers and fruit.