plate no. 4233
A Saucer of Milk
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing subtle light and shadow variations and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in painting realistic textures and rendering figures in a domestic setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, doorway, and furniture.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of neutral color.
- step 03
Block in the main color areas, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone and hue.
- step 04
Develop the figure, focusing on the folds of the dress and the form of the pitcher.
- step 05
Refine the details of the furniture and architectural elements, adding highlights and shadows.
- step 06
Paint the cat, using short, broken brushstrokes to suggest its fur.
- step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · viridian · burnt sienna
Achieve the muted tones by mixing the primary colors with small amounts of secondary colors. Use white to lighten values and create highlights.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
- →Creating too much contrast and making the painting look harsh.
- →Failing to capture the subtle color variations in the light and shadow.
- →Inaccurately rendering the perspective of the interior space.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·mahl stick
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium-grain canvas will provide a good surface for capturing the textures in the painting.
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