plate no. 4667

Anthony Knowles

oilRococoportraitportraitfigureclothingwritingcurtaindesk

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding dramatic lighting and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the figure's pose, proportions, and key features.
step 02
Establish the background with dark, muted tones, paying attention to the subtle variations in the curtain.
step 03
Block in the main areas of the face, using a limited palette of skin tones and focusing on accurate value placement.
step 04
Refine the facial features, adding details like the eyes, nose, and mouth, and paying close attention to the subtle shifts in color and value.
step 05
Paint the clothing, using dark colors and highlighting the folds and creases to create a sense of depth.
step 06
Add the details of the writing desk, including the paper, inkwell, and quill.
step 07
Refine the lighting and shadows throughout the painting, creating a sense of drama and depth.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium yellow

secondary · burnt sienna · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow, and a touch of red and brown. Darken colors with black or burnt umber, and lighten with white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create neutral darks.

techniques