Catherine of Braganza, Queen Consort of Charles II by John Riley

plate no. 6247

Catherine of Braganza, Queen Consort of Charles II

oilBaroqueportraitportraitfigureclothingjewelryfabricroyal

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and rendering of skin tones, as well as techniques for depicting fabric and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

4

brushwork visibility

3

value contrast

3

compositional simplicity

4

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the figure's pose and proportions.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: skin, clothing, background.
step 03
Refine the skin tones, paying attention to subtle variations in color and value.
step 04
Develop the details of the clothing, including the fabric folds and textures.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Paint the jewelry and other accessories.
step 07
Refine the background and add any final details.
step 08
Varnish the painting for protection and to enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · ivory black · burnt umber · cadmium red light · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing cadmium red light, yellow ochre, and titanium white. Use burnt umber and ivory black to create dark shadows and fabric folds.

techniques

·portraiture
·blending
·glazing
·scumbling
·chiaroscuro

common pitfalls

→Incorrect proportions of the figure.
→Overblending the skin tones.
→Failing to create depth and dimension.
→Getting the likeness wrong.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·oil paints
·linseed oil
·turpentine
·assorted brushes
·palette
·palette knife

optional

·medium gloss
·retouch varnish
·easel

Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to thin the paint and improve its flow.

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related guides

oil painting for beginners →chiaroscuro →how to learn by studying the masters →

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