plate no. 0845

Die Königin von Saba

Arthur Segal, 1918

oilCubismgenre paintingfiguresbuildingsvillageskyarchitecture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into geometric shapes and use a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and visual interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and figures, focusing on their geometric forms.
step 02
Divide the canvas into the larger color blocks, mapping out the general areas for each color.
step 03
Begin filling in the larger areas with the dominant colors, using bold, visible brushstrokes.
step 04
Mix and apply the secondary colors to create highlights and shadows, adding depth to the shapes.
step 05
Refine the shapes of the figures and buildings, adding details like windows and facial features with simple lines.
step 06
Pay attention to the color relationships between adjacent shapes, adjusting colors as needed to create harmony.
step 07
Add final details and adjust values to enhance the overall composition.
step 08
Allow to dry and add a varnish to protect the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · viridian green · orange

Mix white with primary colors to create lighter tints. Use burnt sienna and ultramarine blue to create neutral browns and grays. Mix orange and red to create the roof color.

techniques