plate no. 5436

A glass of wine with Caesar Borgia

oilRomanticismhistory paintingfigurestableinteriorhistoricalarchitectureclothing

experienced study

This painting provides practice in rendering figures in complex poses and using a limited palette to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. Students will also learn to depict textures of fabric and skin.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the table.
step 02
Establish the background colors and patterns, working from dark to light.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Refine the details of the faces, hands, and clothing, using smaller brushes.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume and depth.
step 06
Paint the details of the table setting, including the plates, glasses, and silverware.
step 07
Glaze the painting with thin layers of color to unify the composition and enhance the atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and highlights.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · cadmium red · ivory black

secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of brown and red by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and cadmium red. Use ultramarine blue to cool down the browns and create shadows.

techniques