In the 1960s, artists began reviving the use of gold leaf in contemporary art, blending traditional gilding techniques with modern styles. This revival reflected a growing appreciation for craftsmanship and the aesthetic value of gold in art. The incorporation of gold leaf into various art forms contributed to the richness and depth of post-war artistic expression.

The revival of gold leaf in 20th-century art inspired Beat and postmodern poetry that examined materiality and illusion. Poets like Frank O'Hara and John Ashbery incorporated these motifs to challenge perceptions of reality and value in their artistic expressions.