plate no. 8276
Altarpiece of Sts Thomas and Matthias
Bernard Van Orley, 1512
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex drapery, architectural details, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It will also challenge them to accurately depict human figures with varied poses and expressions.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures and architecture.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, focusing on the overall value structure.
- step 03
Develop the architectural details, paying attention to perspective and light.
- step 04
Refine the figures, adding details to the faces, clothing, and hands.
- step 05
Work on the drapery, using highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume.
- step 06
Add the background landscape, using lighter values and softer edges to create depth.
- step 07
Paint the dog, paying attention to its anatomy and fur texture.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · red ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt umber · viridian green · cadmium yellow light
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use glazes of transparent colors to create depth and luminosity.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·linear perspective
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures or architecture
- →Overly bright or saturated colors
- →Flat or lifeless drapery
- →Ignoring perspective principles
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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