Cracked Gesso

At Luke Black, we specialise in the precise, controlled cracking of traditional gesso — a surface technique defined by discipline, restraint, and an intimate understanding of materials. Often referred to as cracked gesso or crackle gesso, our interpretation is anything but accidental: every fissure is deliberate, every texture intentional.

WHAT IS GESSO?

Gesso is a centuries-old surface material, traditionally composed of animal glue (typically rabbit-skin), chalk, and white pigment. Long used as a preparatory ground for painting and gilding, it forms a hard, absorbent base that can be shaped, carved, or polished when expertly applied by hand.

At Luke Black, we honour this historic formula while refining it for contemporary use. We remove the pigment and tune the mixture to suit our process — allowing for controlled cracking, sculptural depth, and a refined tactile presence. Every surface is crafted by hand in our studio, without machinery or shortcuts, ensuring integrity and consistency throughout.

WHERE CAN CRACKED GESSO BE USED?

Cracked gesso is ideally suited to bespoke furniture, sculptural wall panels, and architectural elements — anywhere surface becomes a statement. The result is richly textured, quietly luxurious, and unmistakably crafted.

This technique also lends itself to a range of specialist finishes — including gilding, pigment washes, patination, and liquid metal overlays — all developed and applied in-house. Working closely with designers and architects, we create unique surface treatments designed to complement the character and rhythm of each space.