plate no. 8698

Brustbild einer Dame

Cuno Amiet, 1925

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)portraitportraitwomanfigurehairjewelryface

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in capturing likeness and using color temperature to create form. Students will learn to simplify shapes and use visible brushstrokes to add texture and interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the head, neck, and shoulders.
step 02
Block in the background with light blue, varying the tone slightly.
step 03
Establish the main areas of light and shadow on the face and neck using a limited palette.
step 04
Add the hair, focusing on the overall shape and color variations.
step 05
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add details like the earrings and any highlights.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Add the artist's signature in the lower left corner.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · cadmium red light · sap green

Mix various shades of blue and white for the background. Use yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white for the skin tones, adding small amounts of red for warmth and blue for shadows. Create the hair color by mixing burnt umber, yellow ochre, and a touch of blue.

techniques