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home·artworks·Chancelor G. I. Golovkin
Chancelor G. I. Golovkin by Ivan Nikitin

plate no. 3496

Chancelor G. I. Golovkin

Ivan Nikitin, 1725

oilBaroqueportraitportraitfigureclothingwigjewelryhistorical
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions, rendering of skin tones, and capturing details in clothing and accessories. It also provides practice in creating depth and form through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
4

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Begin with a light sketch outlining the basic proportions and pose of the figure.

  2. step 02

    Establish the background with a dark, neutral tone.

  3. step 03

    Block in the main shapes of the face, hair, and clothing with basic color mixtures.

  4. step 04

    Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the light and shadow on the face.

  5. step 05

    Develop the hair, using layers of light and dark tones to create volume and texture.

  6. step 06

    Add details to the clothing, including the folds, buttons, and embellishments.

  7. step 07

    Paint the jewelry and decorations, focusing on their metallic sheen and intricate designs.

  8. step 08

    Make final adjustments to the values and colors to create a cohesive and realistic image.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · Prussian blue · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

Mix skin tones using burnt umber, raw sienna, titanium white, and a touch of cadmium red light for warmth. Achieve the dark background by mixing ivory black with burnt umber. Use Prussian blue and white for the blue sash.

techniques

  • ·portrait painting
  • ·value studies
  • ·glazing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·rendering of textures

common pitfalls

  • →Getting the proportions wrong in the initial sketch.
  • →Overworking the details too early in the process.
  • →Failing to create enough contrast between the light and shadow areas.
  • →Using colors that are too saturated or unnatural.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·oil paints
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·rags

optional

  • ·medium gloss
  • ·retouch varnish
  • ·easel

Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.

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related guides

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