plate no. 9989

Beguine, Reading Under The Lamp

oilSymbolismgenre paintingfigurelampbookinteriorreadingclothing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to create a sense of atmosphere using a limited palette and how to suggest form through subtle value changes and visible brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, lamp, and book.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the painting, such as the background and shadows under the lamp.
step 03
Begin building up the mid-tones, paying attention to the subtle gradations of light on the figure's face and clothing.
step 04
Use short, directional brushstrokes to define the forms and create texture.
step 05
Add the highlights on the lamp, book, and figure's face to create a focal point.
step 06
Refine the details, such as the patterns on the lampshade and the texture of the book.
step 07
Check the overall balance of values and make adjustments as needed.
step 08
Add final touches to enhance the atmospheric effect.

color palette

primary · ivory black · payne's gray

secondary · raw umber · titanium white

Achieve the various shades by mixing ivory black and payne's gray with varying amounts of titanium white. Add small amounts of raw umber to warm up certain areas.

techniques