Gesso
Pronunciation : Ges"so, n. [It., chalk
Part of Speech : plaster.]
Definition : 1. Plaster of Paris, or gypsum, esp. as prepared for use in painting, or in making bas-reliefs and the like; by extension, a plasterlike or pasty material spread upon a surface to fit it for painting or gilding, or a surface so prepared.
2. A work of art done in gesso. [Obs.]
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913