plate no. 7596

Cardinal della Costa

Oskar Kokoschka, 1948

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurecardinalreligious figurerobeheadwear

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and color mixing to create dynamic portraits. It also encourages experimentation with layering and broken color techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the main areas of light and shadow using a thin wash of color.
step 03
Begin layering in the darker values, focusing on the robe and background.
step 04
Develop the mid-tones and highlights in the face and hands, using broken color techniques.
step 05
Add details to the cardinal's hat and cross, paying attention to color variations.
step 06
Refine the background with expressive brushstrokes and color accents.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition and value contrast to create a sense of depth and drama.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson

Mix various shades of red and orange for the hat and face. Use blues and browns to create the dark robe. Introduce yellows and oranges into the background to create a vibrant atmosphere.

techniques