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. Trimmijng 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