gessi

Gessi is the plural form of gesso in Italian, referring to plaster-like materials used in art and decorative work. In English, gesso (singular) is the common term for a priming ground applied to painting supports, while gessi is the Italian plural form.

Traditional gesso is made by calcining gypsum to produce a fine plaster, which is typically mixed with a binder such as animal glue and sometimes chalk to create a stiff, white ground. Modern gesso used for painting commonly relies on an acrylic polymer binder, yielding a smooth, flexible surface that adheres to canvas, wood, or other supports. The choice of binder and additives affects drying time, texture, and absorbency.

Applications of gesso include preparing surfaces for tempera and oil painting, sealing porous materials, and smoothing panels prior to gilding or further decoration. It can be applied in multiple thin layers, then sanded or carved to achieve the desired texture. Gesso also serves in sculpture and decorative arts as a base layer for painting or to create a uniform white surface.

Beyond its artistic use, the term gessi may appear as a surname in Italian-speaking regions and as a brand name or product line in various industries. In general, gesso and its plural gessi remain primarily associated with art materials and their traditional techniques, while adapting to modern, synthetic formulations for contemporary practice.