plate no. 9203

Discovery of the corpse of Jacopo de 'Pazzi

oil, canvasRealismhistory paintingfiguresbuildingwallskytreeshistorical event

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition, and rendering textures of stone and fabric. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of key elements.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
step 03
Develop the background elements, focusing on the sky and distant landscape.
step 04
Begin to refine the details of the building and wall, paying attention to the texture of the stone.
step 05
Start adding the figures, working from the back to the front.
step 06
Refine the details of the figures, including their clothing and facial expressions.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · raw sienna

Mix burnt umber and yellow ochre for the building and ground. Add titanium white to lighten values. Use ultramarine blue and titanium white for the sky. Mix cadmium red with burnt umber for clothing.

techniques