plate no. 5632

Arthur Honegger with "King David"

Alice Bailly, 1921

oil, canvasCubismportraitportraitfigurepipesuitmusicbackground figures

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms into geometric shapes and understanding color relationships within a limited palette. It also encourages practice in creating a sense of depth through layering and subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Divide the figure and background into geometric planes, simplifying the forms.
step 03
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 04
Gradually build up the color intensity and refine the shapes, using slightly thicker paint.
step 05
Add details like the pipe, musical notes, and facial features.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a sense of depth and form.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figure.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · black · white · brown · ochre

secondary · red · grey · yellow

Mix various shades of brown and grey by combining black, white, and ochre. Use small amounts of red and yellow to create warmer tones for the skin and background.

techniques