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home·artworks·Aeneas Saving Anchisis from Burning Troy
Aeneas Saving Anchisis from Burning Troy by Adam Elsheimer

plate no. 9537

Aeneas Saving Anchisis from Burning Troy

Adam Elsheimer

temperaBaroquemythological paintingfiguresmythologyfirebuildingslandscaperescue
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, anatomy, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering dynamic poses and dramatic lighting.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Create a preliminary sketch outlining the main figures and composition.

  2. step 02

    Block in the background elements, focusing on the burning city and dark sky.

  3. step 03

    Establish the basic skin tones of the figures using a limited palette.

  4. step 04

    Develop the musculature and anatomy of the figures, paying attention to light and shadow.

  5. step 05

    Add details to the faces, including expressions of urgency and concern.

  6. step 06

    Refine the drapery and clothing, adding folds and highlights.

  7. step 07

    Paint the figures in the background and the details of the burning city.

  8. step 08

    Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the drama and depth.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue

Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and small amounts of cadmium red. Use ivory black and ultramarine blue for the dark areas and shadows.

techniques

  • ·figure drawing
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·atmospheric perspective
  • ·glazing
  • ·dry brushing

common pitfalls

  • →Getting the proportions of the figures wrong.
  • →Overworking the details too early in the process.
  • →Failing to create a convincing sense of depth.
  • →Not capturing the emotional intensity of the scene.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·acrylic gesso
  • ·yellow ochre acrylic paint
  • ·burnt umber acrylic paint
  • ·ivory black acrylic paint
  • ·cadmium red acrylic paint
  • ·ultramarine blue acrylic paint
  • ·round brushes (various sizes)

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·retarder medium
  • ·varnish

Use a canvas with a smooth surface for better blending. Consider using a glazing medium to create depth and luminosity.

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chiaroscuro →how to learn by studying the masters →
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