plate no. 7855

Don Juan. Illustration.

Carlos Saenz de Tejada, 1938

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)illustrationfigureskeletondogbedcandleskull

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in rendering complex figures and drapery using a limited palette. Students will develop skills in value shading and creating a sense of depth using atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main figures and objects.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the painting with a diluted dark wash.
step 03
Begin layering lighter washes to build up the mid-tones and highlights.
step 04
Pay close attention to the drapery folds and the way light interacts with them.
step 05
Add details to the figures, such as the facial features and the skeleton's bones.
step 06
Refine the values and add subtle color variations to create depth.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the text and the small objects on the table.
step 08
Evaluate and adjust the overall composition and values.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue

Use ivory black and raw umber to create a range of grays and browns. Add small amounts of ultramarine blue to create subtle cool tones in the shadows.

techniques