plate no. 9414

Cyril Jackson

oilRomanticismportraitportraitfigurechairwindowrobehat

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in tonal value studies and portraiture, focusing on subtle gradations to create form and depth. It also provides practice in rendering fabric and textures using a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, chair, and background.
step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest values in the composition to create a value map.
step 03
Begin filling in the mid-tones, focusing on the overall form and structure of the figure and drapery.
step 04
Gradually build up the darker values in the shadows, paying attention to the subtle shifts in tone.
step 05
Refine the highlights on the face, hands, and clothing to create a sense of depth and dimension.
step 06
Add details to the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth, using small, precise brushstrokes.
step 07
Work on the background details, such as the chair, window, and drapery, to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the values and details to create a cohesive and balanced composition.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · payne's gray · yellow ochre

Achieve subtle tonal variations by gradually mixing black and white, adding small amounts of raw umber or yellow ochre for warmth. Use payne's gray for cooler shadows.

techniques