Tanjore Painting Gesso: What It Is and How It's Made
Y
Written by
Yashaswini Jaishankar
14 October 2026·6 min read
Reviewed by Vibha Raj, Founder, Tanjore Collective
Gesso from the studio floor: how chalk powder and Arabic gum become the raised crowns, arches and jewellery of a Tanjore painting, the order we teach it in, and why it takes time.
By Yashaswini Jaishankar, Head Teacher at Tanjore Collective. Yashaswini began as one of our students and now leads our classes, guiding students through the embossing and intricate detailing.
Gesso in Tanjore painting is a paste made from chalk powder and Arabic gum, built up by hand into the raised relief that gives a Tanjore painting its three-dimensional crowns, arches and jewellery. Chalk powder is the main ingredient of this embossing base, and Arabic gum binds it (the same gum is later used to stick the gold). Once the gesso relief is in place, kundan stones are set into it and 24 karat gold is laid over it.
If you've ever run your fingers over a Tanjore painting and felt the ornaments rise beneath them, that's gesso. Many beginners find this stage a little daunting at first, because it's so different from painting. But it's also a stage many students say they fall in love with. It's slow, calm, and quietly satisfying, and it follows a clear order you can learn. For the full list of what goes into a painting, see our guide to Tanjore painting materials.
What is gesso in Tanjore painting?
Gesso is the paste used to build the raised relief in a Tanjore painting. Building that relief is called embossing. It's what turns a flat sketch into a surface with depth: the arches around the deity, the crown, the necklaces and armlets, the borders. It's one of the defining features of the art form, alongside the gold foil, the inlaid stones and the rich colour.
Building the relief by hand, one line at a time.
What is gesso made of?
Tanjore painting gesso is made from two materials, both included in our Essentials Material Kit:
Ingredient
What it does
Chalk powder
The main ingredient of the gesso, forming the body of the embossing base
Arabic gum crystals
Prepared first and used to make the gesso; also used later to stick the gold foil onto the canvas
The same two ingredients are also used to prepare the canvas itself, before the sketch goes on. You can read about that first stage in our post on preparing the board.
You might be looking for an exact recipe. The truth is that the consistency matters as much as the ingredients, and it's far easier to learn by watching it made than from a list of measurements. That's why we teach the preparation step by step, on video and in class, rather than publishing a formula.
How we prepare and use gesso, step by step
Here's the order from our Lalitha Devi and Ganesha DIY video courses, lesson by lesson:
Preparing the Arabic gum
Preparing the embossing paste (the gesso)
Using the embossing paste, learning to control how it flows
Sticking the kundan stones onto the sketch
Embossing for the kundan stones, building the relief around each one
Embossing the canvas, the crowns, ornaments, arches and borders
Cleaning the embossing paste, tidying any excess so the lines stay crisp
Our Lakshmi and Saraswati courses follow the same path, with lessons on embossing around the kundan stones, intricate embossing, and correcting excess embossing paste. After the gesso comes the gold. You can see how the stones fit into this in our guide to kundan stones.
Embossing the ornaments and border, just inside a row of kundan stones.
Where gesso sits in the whole process
Gesso comes early, right after the canvas and sketch are ready:
Canvas preparation → sketch → gesso and embossing → kundan stones → 24 karat gold → painting → Swarovski crystals
Why gesso work takes time
In our courses, the embossing stage takes two to three sessions, and it's worth every minute. The relief has to be even and crisp, because the gold is laid directly over it. Any unevenness in the gesso shows through the gold, while a clean, well-built relief makes the gold catch the light beautifully.
A few things trip beginners up, and they're all gentle lessons rather than disasters:
Rushing. Gesso rewards patience. Slow, steady lines look far better than quick ones.
Too much paste. That's why cleaning and correcting excess embossing paste is a lesson of its own.
Losing the shape. Following the sketch closely keeps ornaments neat and balanced.
In the studio you'll see gesso applied with a cone and with a brush, and both have their place. Whichever you use, your hand gets steadier with every session. Many students find this is where the calm, meditative feeling of Tanjore painting first sets in.
What good gesso becomes: crisp relief under 24 karat gold.
How gesso and gold work together
Gesso and gold are partners. The gesso gives the painting its shape, and the gold gives it its light. Once the relief has been built and the kundan stones set into it, real 24 karat gold leaf is laid over the raised areas, held with Arabic gum. In our classes, this gold stage takes another two to three sessions.
Because the gold follows every curve of the relief beneath it, the gesso decides how the finished ornaments will look. A crown with smooth, even relief turns into a crown that glows. That's why we never hurry this stage, and why we'd rather you spend an extra session on your gesso than rush to the gold. If you'd like to know more about the gold itself, our guide to 22K vs 24K gold foil explains why purity matters for shine and longevity.
Watch gesso work in our studio
Frequently asked questions
What is gesso made of in Tanjore painting?
Chalk powder and Arabic gum. Chalk powder is the main ingredient of the embossing base, and Arabic gum binds it. Both come in our Essentials Material Kit.
Is gesso the same as embossing?
Not quite. Gesso is the paste. Embossing is the work of building the raised relief with it. In our courses the two words are often used together, because you can't have one without the other.
Can a beginner do gesso work?
Yes. Our boards come pre-sketched, so you simply follow the lines, and the embossing is taught slowly over two to three sessions. Most of our students have never done anything like it before they start.
What comes after the gesso?
Kundan stones are set into the relief, and then 24 karat gold foil is laid over it, held with Arabic gum. Painting and Swarovski crystals come after that.
To see how gesso fits with every other material, from the board to the gold, read our complete guide to Tanjore painting materials.
tanjore painting gessoembossing paste for tanjore paintingchalk powder and arabic gumtanjore painting embossingtanjore painting materials
Hear from students who've learned the art of Tanjore painting with us.
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
Radha
Tanjore Painting
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
