plate no. 1694
Crucifixion of St. Peter
Masaccio, 1426
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, foreshortening, and creating a sense of depth through subtle color variations and atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting complex scenes with multiple figures.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main figures and architectural elements, paying attention to proportions and perspective.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas for the figures, background, and clothing using thin washes of tempera.
- step 03
Begin building up layers of color on the figures, focusing on modeling the forms with subtle value changes to create a sense of volume.
- step 04
Add details to the faces and clothing, using fine brushes to create texture and definition.
- step 05
Work on the background, gradually adding layers of color to create atmospheric perspective and a sense of depth.
- step 06
Refine the details of the architectural elements, paying attention to the play of light and shadow.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall sense of realism.
- step 08
Glaze with thin washes to unify the colors and create a sense of harmony.
color palette
primary · ochre · raw umber · burnt sienna · ivory black
secondary · ultramarine blue · vermilion
Mix ochre with white for skin tones, use raw umber and black for shadows, and create muted reds by mixing vermilion with a touch of black or umber.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·foreshortening
- ·glazing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·modeling
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions in figures
- →flat, lifeless skin tones
- →lack of depth in the background
- →overworking details early in the process
materials
surface · gessoed panel
required
- ·gessoed panel
- ·egg tempera paints
- ·fine detail brushes
- ·medium-sized round brushes
- ·palette
- ·water
- ·soft cloth
optional
- ·retarder
- ·varnish
Egg tempera dries quickly, so work in small sections and keep your brushes clean. Consider using a retarder to slow the drying time if needed.
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