plate no. 9973
Baking the Bread
Anders Zorn, 1889
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
- step 03
Block in the main areas of color, paying attention to the warm and cool light sources.
- step 04
Develop the figures, starting with the larger shapes and gradually adding details.
- step 05
Refine the details of the table and other objects in the scene.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Use loose brushstrokes to suggest texture and movement.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · raw sienna · cadmium red light · ivory black
Mix various shades of brown and beige by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and white. Use small amounts of red and black to create subtle variations in color temperature.
techniques
- ·alla prima
- ·scumbling
- ·broken color
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, painterly quality.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated or bright.
- →Ignoring the subtle shifts in color temperature.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall value structure.
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