plate no. 0148

Baron Edmond De Rothschild II

Abdul Mati Klarwein, 1963

oilMagic Realismportraitportraitfiguremanbeardsuithistorical

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in value studies, portrait proportions, and rendering textures like hair and fabric. It also provides an opportunity to practice subtle blending techniques to create smooth transitions.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, focusing on the head, shoulders, and suit.
step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest areas of the painting with thin washes of black and white.
step 03
Gradually build up the mid-tones, paying attention to the subtle value changes in the face and clothing.
step 04
Focus on rendering the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using small, precise brushstrokes.
step 05
Add texture to the hair and beard by using dry brush techniques and varying the direction of your strokes.
step 06
Refine the details of the suit, including the collar, tie, and lapels.
step 07
Blend the edges of the figure into the background to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall contrast and realism of the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · raw umber · payne's gray

Achieve the various shades of gray by mixing black and white in different proportions. Use raw umber and payne's gray sparingly to add warmth or coolness to the grays.

techniques