Literature Desk
07 December 2025, 08:00 AM IST
Every great painting starts with a silent foundation. Today’s word brings up these
Representatinal image | Photo: Canva
Word of the Day: GESSO
Pronunciation: ges·so UK/ˈdʒes.əʊ/ US/ˈdʒes.oʊ/
Meaning:
‘Gesso’ is a white, paint-like mixture traditionally made of plaster of Paris (gypsum), chalk, or whiting (calcium carbonate) mixed with glue. Artists apply it as a base layer on canvas, wood panels, or sculptures to create a smooth, absorbent surface for painting.
Origin and History:
The word “gesso” comes from Italian, meaning “chalk” or “plaster”, derived from the Latin gypsum (plaster) and ultimately from the Greek gypsos (chalk),
During the Italian Renaissance, gesso gained prominence. Art manuals from the era described how painters coated wooden panels with this chalk-and-glue mixture to prepare the surface before applying tempera or oil paints. It ensured brightness, durability, and a flawless finish.
Cultural Significance and Modern usage :
Renaissance Art: Nearly every iconic panel painting by masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Giotto began with layers of gesso.
Icon painting traditions: In Byzantine and Orthodox Christian art, gessoed panels are essential for creating sacred icons.
Sculpture and Restoration: In many historical sculptures, gesso served as an underlayer before gilding. Even today, restorers use gesso to revive artwork without harming the original surface.
Modern studios: Acrylic gesso is now a staple for painters around the world—from hobby artists to professionals, to control texture and absorbency.
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Interesting facts:
Two types: Traditional gesso (chalk + animal glue) becomes extremely hard when dry. Meanwhile, acrylic gesso (the modern version) remains flexible, so artists can use it on canvas without cracking.
Multiple coats: Expert artists apply 6 to 12 thin layers, sanding between each, to achieve a porcelain-smooth surface.
Gesso art boards: Some companies produce pre-gessoed boards that mimic Renaissance painting panels.
Gesso sculpture: In early theatre productions, masks and props were often strengthened with gesso before painting.
Examples from Books and Articles:
“I muck up my mother’s kitchen floor and pots, cooking the gesso, and ruin panel after panel before I can work out how to paint it on for a smooth working surface.”-Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood
“We spent months experimenting with the methods the old masters used to create real gesso.”- Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
Synonyms:
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