plate no. 1880

Christ on the Cross with the Virgin, Mary Magdalene, St. John and St. Francis of Paola

oil, canvasTenebrismreligious paintingcrucifixionfiguresreligiouscrossrobesdark background

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, rendering drapery, and understanding dramatic chiaroscuro. It also provides practice in creating a focal point through light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the cross.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a thin wash of dark brown or black.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures and the cross with simplified color masses.
step 04
Begin building up the light areas on the figures, paying attention to the anatomy and drapery folds.
step 05
Develop the highlights and shadows on the cross, creating a sense of depth and texture.
step 06
Refine the details of the faces and hands, capturing the expressions and gestures.
step 07
Add the final touches, such as the crown of thorns and the inscription on the cross.
step 08
Glaze the painting to unify the colors and enhance the shadows.

color palette

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

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · raw sienna

Mix various shades of brown and black for the background and shadows. Use white to create highlights and mix with other colors for lighter tones. Achieve the red robes by mixing cadmium red with burnt umber and a touch of black for shadows.

techniques