plate no. 5096

Chrysanthemums (still Life Beside a Lake)

Fujishima Takeji, 1928

oilPost-Impressionismflower paintingflowerslakestill lifetablemountainsfoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors, creating depth through atmospheric perspective, and capturing the textures of different objects with visible brushstrokes. It also provides practice in composing a complex still life with a landscape backdrop.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the table, vase, and landscape elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, water, mountains, and table cloth with thin washes.
step 03
Establish the values and colors of the flowers, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 04
Develop the details of the vase, teacups, and other objects on the table.
step 05
Refine the landscape, adding details to the mountains and reflections in the water.
step 06
Add the foliage framing the scene, using broken brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Adjust the overall color harmony and value relationships to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to bring the painting to life.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · titanium white · sap green

Mix various shades of blue and white for the sky and water. Use red and yellow ochre to create warm tones for the flowers and foliage. Burnt umber is essential for shadows and defining forms.

techniques