This is what happens when hands and fingers are put all over a frame just before it is gilded. The bole (very fine clay) is absorbent and the natural oily residue on the palms and fingers remains on the surface, when the frame is water gilded and distressed these prints will stick out like a sore thumb. The only way to stop this is not to handle the bole surface, or to wipe it down with meths to remove the greasy marks. This may not stand out that much in the photos, but trust me, in reality it hits you like a slap in the face!
