plate no. 6668

After Dinner Discourse

oilRomanticismanimal paintingmonkeystabledinnerfiguresinteriorwaiter

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic figures with complex lighting and textures, as well as creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, paying attention to the placement and proportions of the figures and objects.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
step 03
Begin to refine the details of the figures, focusing on the facial features and expressions.
step 04
Add the details of the clothing and other objects, paying attention to the textures and patterns.
step 05
Develop the background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows, creating a sense of drama and realism.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to bring the painting to life.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect it and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ivory black · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, ivory black, and white. Use yellow ochre to create warm highlights and cadmium red for accents. Mix greens from viridian and yellow ochre.

techniques