Gesso is a fundamental component in the world of art, serving as a preparatory layer for various surfaces before painting. Its origins can be traced back centuries, and its formulation and applications have evolved over time. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of gesso, exploring its composition, historical significance, and the diverse types that artists employ in their creative endeavours.
What is Gesso?
Gesso, derived from the Italian word for “chalk” or “plaster,” is a primer used to prepare surfaces for painting. It provides a smooth, absorbent foundation that enhances the adherence and longevity of paint layers. Traditionally, gesso consists of a mixture of a binder, pigment, and a filler.
The Composition of Gesso
Binders
The binder in gesso is a crucial component that holds the mixture together and adheres it to the painting surface. Historically, animal glue, commonly derived from rabbit skin, was a prevalent choice. In contemporary formulations, acrylic polymer emulsions have gained popularity due to their stability and flexibility.
Pigments
Pigments give gesso its colour and opacity. Titanium dioxide is a common pigment, imparting a bright white hue to the gesso. However, artists can customise their gesso by incorporating various pigments to achieve specific tones.
Fillers
Fillers, such as calcium carbonate or gypsum, contribute to the texture and absorbency of the gesso. They also play a role in preventing the paint from soaking into the canvas or support, ensuring a stable surface for the artist.
Historical Significance
Ancient Origins
The use of gesso can be traced back to ancient civilisations. In ancient Egypt, gesso-like substances were employed to prepare wooden surfaces for intricate hieroglyphic paintings. The Greeks and Romans further refined these techniques, utilising mixtures of chalk and animal glue.
Renaissance Revival
During the Renaissance, the demand for finely prepared surfaces surged with the flourishing art scene. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo utilised gesso to create masterpieces on canvas and wooden panels. The application of multiple gesso layers allowed for intricate detailing and nuanced shading.
Baroque and Beyond
In the Baroque era, artists continued to rely on gesso for its transformative qualities. The use of gilded surfaces became popular, with gesso serving as a base for the application of gold leaf. This technique added a luxurious dimension to religious and secular artworks alike.
Types of Gesso
Traditional Gesso
Traditional gesso, as used by the Old Masters, often consists of rabbit skin glue, chalk, and pigment. While it provides a classic surface with excellent adhesion, it can be sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
Acrylic Gesso
Modern acrylic gesso has become the go-to choice for many artists due to its flexibility, stability, and resistance to environmental factors. It dries quickly, allowing artists to build up layers rapidly, and is suitable for a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, and paper.
Clear Gesso
Clear gesso is a transparent variation, ideal for artists who wish to retain the natural colour of their support while still enjoying the benefits of a gessoed surface. It provides a subtle tooth for paint adhesion without altering the base colour.
Coloured Gesso
Beyond the standard white, artists can explore a spectrum of colours with tinted or coloured gesso. These variations offer a pre-toned surface, influencing the overall colour palette of the artwork. Coloured gesso can be used strategically to create mood or emphasise certain elements within a composition.
Sandable Gesso
Sandable gesso, formulated with a finer texture, allows artists to create smoother surfaces. This type of gesso is ideal for those who prefer to sand their surfaces between layers, achieving a polished and refined finish.
Black Gesso
Black gesso provides a unique foundation for artists exploring a darker aesthetic. It serves as an excellent base for paintings with deep shadows and high contrast, allowing colours to pop against the dark background.
Conclusion
Gesso, with its rich history and diverse applications, remains an indispensable tool for artists across the globe. From ancient civilisations to contemporary studios, the preparation of surfaces with gesso has been a constant, adapting to the ever-evolving needs of the art world. As artists continue to experiment with materials and techniques, gesso stands as a testament to the enduring marriage of tradition and innovation in the realm of visual arts.
