We describe a technique for the localization of extracellular matrix proteins in wedge and needle biopsy specimens of human liver. Using ultra‐thin (50–70 nm) sections of puncture perfusion fixed tissue, extracellular matrix proteins were localized using a protein A‐gold labelling procedure. We obtained good preservation of ultrastructural detail and specific labelling for collagen types I, III and IV and fibronectin. The method represents a sensitive means of identifying the extracellular distribution and the cellular origin of these proteins in normal and diseased human