plate no. 6054

Charles II of Spain

oilBaroqueportraitfigureportraitdraperyliontableinterior

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding how to create depth and form using chiaroscuro.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, lion, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the darkest and lightest areas with thin washes of paint.
step 03
Develop the background, focusing on the drapery and the suggestion of architectural elements.
step 04
Work on the figure, starting with the face and hands, gradually building up layers of color and detail.
step 05
Define the lion sculpture, paying attention to its form and texture.
step 06
Refine the details of the clothing and accessories, such as the hat and the paper in the figure's hand.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition, ensuring that all elements are working together harmoniously.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

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

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

Achieve the dark, rich tones by mixing umbers and black. Use white and small amounts of yellow ochre and red to create skin tones. Mix blue and umber for cooler shadows.

techniques