Gouache is a type of paint consisting of natural pigment, water, a
binding agent (usually gum arabic or dextrin) and sometimes additional
inert material. Gouache is designed to be opaque. Gouache has a
considerable history, going back at least 1200 years. It is used most
consistently by commercial artists for posters, illustrations, comics,
and other design work.
Gouache is similar to watercolor in that it can be re-wetted, it dries
to a matte finish, and the paint can become infused with its paper
support. It is similar to acrylic or oil paints in that it is normally
used in an opaque painting style and it can form a superficial layer.