plate no. 5453
Altar of Archangel Michael
Gerard David, 1510
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex figures, drapery, and atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in mixing subtle color gradations to create realistic forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main figures and landscape elements, paying attention to proportions and composition.
- step 02
Establish the background sky and distant landscape with thin washes of color.
- step 03
Block in the main color masses for the angel, demons, and drapery.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the angel's face, wings, and clothing, focusing on light and shadow.
- step 05
Develop the forms of the demons and the rocky landscape, using darker tones to create depth.
- step 06
Refine the drapery folds and highlights, adding texture and detail.
- step 07
Add final details such as the cross, shield, and any small figures in the background.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the overall effect.
color palette
primary · red ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white · raw umber
secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black · cadmium red light
Achieve the skin tones by mixing white, red ochre, and a touch of yellow ochre. The red drapery is a mix of cadmium red light and red ochre, shaded with raw umber. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, adding a touch of yellow ochre for warmth.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·underpainting
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
- →Losing the overall sense of atmosphere and depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·#2 round brush
- ·#4 filbert brush
- ·#6 flat brush
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to help establish the initial value structure.
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