plate no. 0155
Calvary Triptych (Central panel)
Hugo van der Goes, 1468
advanced study
Recreating this painting would develop skills in figure drawing, drapery painting, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to manage a complex composition with many elements.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
1
study guide
est. 60 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a detailed sketch, mapping out the placement of all figures and landscape elements.
- step 02
Establish the background sky and distant landscape using thin washes of color.
- step 03
Block in the main figures with simplified shapes and values, focusing on accurate proportions.
- step 04
Develop the drapery folds and details on the figures, paying attention to light and shadow.
- step 05
Add details to the horses and other secondary figures, maintaining the overall composition.
- step 06
Refine the facial features and expressions of the figures.
- step 07
Add final details such as the skull, architectural elements, and subtle highlights.
- step 08
Glaze over the painting to unify the colors and create a sense of depth.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · crimson red · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · viridian green · burnt umber · raw sienna
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use glazes of transparent colors to create depth and luminosity.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·drapery painting
- ·glazing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·underpainting
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
- →Overworking details too early
- →Losing the overall composition
- →Muddy colors due to overmixing
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·medium gel
- ·painting easel
- ·mahl stick
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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