plate no. 3177
Dannebrog Falling from the Sky During the Battle of Lyndanisse, June 15, 1219
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, atmospheric perspective, and rendering textures like metal and fabric. It also encourages the study of historical painting techniques.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 25 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and the horizon line.
- step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of sky and distant landscape.
- step 03
Block in the main figures with simplified shapes and values.
- step 04
Develop the details of the figures, including armor, clothing, and facial features.
- step 05
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and volume.
- step 06
Add details to the background battle scene, using atmospheric perspective to suggest distance.
- step 07
Paint the flag and other symbolic elements.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance realism.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · ivory black
Achieve the atmospheric perspective by mixing blues and grays with white to create lighter, cooler tones for distant elements. Mix browns and blacks with blues and reds to create the various shades of armor and clothing.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·figure drawing
- ·rendering metal
common pitfalls
- →Getting lost in the details too early.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Inconsistent lighting.
- →Incorrect proportions in figures.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned ground to speed up the painting process.
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