plate no. 7335

Count August Ferdinand Breuner-Enckevoirt with his wife Maria Theresia Esterhazy and their two children

oilRomanticismportraitportraitfamilyinteriorchildrentablecurtain

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as understanding how to create depth and form through subtle value changes and color mixing.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main figures and objects, paying attention to proportions and placement.
step 02
Establish the background colors, starting with the wall and curtain, using thin washes.
step 03
Block in the main shapes and values of the figures, focusing on the overall light and shadow patterns.
step 04
Develop the skin tones, using layers of subtle color variations to create form and depth.
step 05
Add details to the clothing and accessories, paying attention to fabric folds and textures.
step 06
Refine the facial features, focusing on capturing the likeness of each individual.
step 07
Paint the details of the table, rug, and other objects, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the overall composition, ensuring that the colors and values are balanced and harmonious.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, cadmium red, and a touch of burnt umber. Use ultramarine blue and white for the cool tones in the clothing and background. Mix burnt umber and cadmium red for the warm tones in the curtain and furniture.

techniques