plate no. 8029
Calvary Triptych (detail)
Justus van Gent, 1468
advanced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating atmospheric perspective in a landscape. Students will also learn to mix subtle color variations and create a sense of depth through careful value control.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
1
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a detailed sketch of the composition, paying attention to the placement and proportions of the figures and landscape elements.
- step 02
Establish the basic color blocks for the background landscape, including the sky, hills, and cityscape.
- step 03
Begin painting the figures, starting with the underpainting to establish the basic forms and values.
- step 04
Layer colors to create depth and dimension in the drapery, paying attention to the folds and highlights.
- step 05
Add details to the faces and hands, capturing the expressions and gestures of the figures.
- step 06
Paint the horses, paying attention to their anatomy and the way light interacts with their coats.
- step 07
Refine the details in the landscape, adding texture and atmospheric perspective.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of realism and depth.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · crimson red · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · viridian green · burnt umber · ivory black
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Create atmospheric perspective by adding blue to distant colors.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·underpainting
- ·drapery rendering
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →overworking the details
- →getting lost in the complexity of the composition
- →inaccurate proportions of figures
- →flat or lifeless colors
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retouch varnish
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to help establish the overall color harmony.
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