Egg white

In the context of artistic and craft applications, egg white, also known as albumen, is primarily used as an ingredient in the preparation of gesso, a traditional ground or primer for painting surfaces.

Gesso is a mixture of a binder and a filler that is applied to a surface to create a smooth and stable foundation for painting. Egg white serves as the binder component in traditional gesso recipes. It is combined with other ingredients such as chalk or gypsum to form a paste that can be applied to surfaces like wood panels or canvas.

The albumen in egg white provides adhesive properties, allowing the gesso to adhere firmly to the painting surface. It also helps in creating a smooth and slightly absorbent ground that enhances the adherence and longevity of subsequent paint layers.

Egg white gesso has been widely used throughout history and is valued for its archival qualities. It dries to a hard, durable surface that resists cracking and provides a stable base for various painting techniques. The absorbency of the gesso layer can be adjusted by altering the ratio of egg white to filler, allowing artists to achieve desired levels of paint absorption.

Apart from its use in gesso, egg white can also be used as a sizing agent for paper, helping to seal its surface and prevent excessive absorption of paints and inks. It is applied in a diluted form to create a thin, protective layer that allows for better control of wet media on paper.

Egg white, like egg yolk, has been utilized by artists for centuries and contributes to the rich tradition of using natural materials in artistic practices. Its adhesive properties, compatibility with pigments, and archival characteristics make it a valuable ingredient in the preparation of painting surfaces and the creation of long-lasting artworks.