plate no. 9556
A Reading
Thomas Dewing, 1897
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing subtle color variations and creating realistic reflections. It also provides practice in depicting figures in an interior setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes: figures, table, vase, and mirror.
- step 02
Establish the background with broad, blended strokes of muted blues and yellows.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures' dresses, focusing on the overall tone rather than details.
- step 04
Paint the table surface, paying close attention to the reflections and highlights.
- step 05
Add details to the vase and flowers, using small brushstrokes.
- step 06
Refine the figures' features and clothing folds, adding subtle shadows and highlights.
- step 07
Paint the mirror and its reflection, using darker tones and soft edges.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the overall composition, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors and values.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white
secondary · burnt umber · raw sienna · viridian
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use thin glazes to build up depth and luminosity.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·soft blending
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking details too early
- →Using colors that are too saturated
- →Ignoring the subtle value shifts
- →Failing to capture the reflective quality of the table
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·round brushes
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to simplify the initial stages.
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