plate no. 2023

Charles Harvey

oilRomanticismportraitfigureportraitrobestabledraperybook

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly capturing likeness and rendering fabrics with realistic folds and textures. Students will also learn how to create depth and atmosphere using subtle value changes and glazing techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the proportions and pose of the figure.
step 02
Establish the background with broad strokes, paying attention to the drapery and architectural elements.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, including the robes and facial features.
step 04
Begin to refine the facial features, focusing on accurate proportions and subtle value changes.
step 05
Develop the folds and textures of the robes, using a combination of blending and dry brush techniques.
step 06
Add details to the table and book, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 07
Glaze the painting with thin layers of color to create depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · crimson red · raw umber

secondary · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of black by combining ivory black with small amounts of raw umber and crimson. Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and a touch of crimson. Use glazes of burnt sienna and raw umber to create depth in the shadows.

techniques