Material · Mineral

Gypsum plaster (gach)

گچ

Fast-setting plaster carved while soft into wall and ceiling ornament.

Origin

Burnt gypsum, widely available across Iran.

Properties

  • Sets quickly
  • Carvable
  • Weakened by damp

Preparation

Mix, apply to the wall and carve before it fully hardens.

Care & preservation

Keep dry; water damage causes loss.

General guidance only. For valuable or fragile pieces, consult a qualified conservator before cleaning or treatment.

Used in these crafts

Stucco carving (Gach-bori)

The carving and moulding of gypsum plaster into architectural ornament, including mihrabs, inscriptions, muqarnas and wall panels.