plate no. 8646

Carmen Quevedo Pessanha

bronzeNeoclassicismportraitportraitbustfigurehairsculpture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering form through subtle value changes and understanding the interplay of light and shadow on a three-dimensional object. It also provides practice in capturing the likeness and texture of a sculpted surface.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall proportions and pose of the bust.
step 02
Block in the main shapes of the head, neck, and shoulders, focusing on accurate placement.
step 03
Establish the darkest shadows and lightest highlights to create a sense of depth.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Add details to the hair, capturing the curls and texture with varied brushstrokes.
step 06
Develop the drapery and base, adding subtle variations in tone to suggest form.
step 07
Soften edges and blend transitions to create a smooth, sculptural effect.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the realism and capture the light.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre

Mix raw umber with varying amounts of titanium white to create a range of neutral tones. Add small amounts of yellow ochre for warmth and ivory black for cooler shadows.

techniques