Beating Gold Leaf . The art of beating fine gold leaf was in existence 4,000 years ago and many of the treasures of luxor are decorated with magnificent specimens of the craft . today the art of gold leaf beating is brought to perfection by Messrs G.M. Whiley , Whitfield St, Tottenham CT RD, who have carried on the business for years . Trimming and booking - the fine leaf is cut to suitable size and placed in books for use (25 leaves to a book). 1 oz of gold will produce 2,000 leaves . 29 January 1923