Traditionally a substrate applied to a base material to achve a smooth surface for the application of paint or other materials, gesso has been an important material in traditional European arts.

Gesso is created by combining gypsum powder and hide glue, which is then applied hot in layers then sanded between each layer. Alexander Lamont uses gesso to create special finishing effects.

Lamont’s renowned Antique Ivory Crackle Tusk was created to resemble that of a burnished surface of old ivory. It has the same craquelure of an antique sheet of ivory but no elephant was involved in its creation.