plate no. 2006

Alexander the Great in the Temple of Jerusalem

oil, canvasBaroquehistory paintingfigurestemplearchitecturedraperyhistorical scenecolumns

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in color mixing to achieve realistic skin tones and fabric textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch to map out the composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Establish the background architecture and drapery with light washes of color.
step 03
Block in the main figures with basic shapes and values.
step 04
Refine the figures, adding details to faces, clothing, and accessories.
step 05
Develop the drapery folds and textures, paying attention to light and shadow.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create volume and depth.
step 07
Glaze over areas to unify the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details, such as jewelry, patterns, and subtle color variations.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and cadmium red with varying amounts of titanium white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create a range of grays for the architecture.

techniques