plate no. 4717

Duguesclin Cocherel

oilAcademicismhistory paintingfigureshorsesarmorflagslandscapebattle

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting complex figures in armor, rendering realistic horse anatomy, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and horses.
step 02
Establish the background landscape and sky with broad, blended strokes.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures and horses, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Begin refining the details of the armor, using highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth.
step 05
Add details to the faces and clothing of the figures, paying attention to their expressions.
step 06
Refine the details of the horses, including their muscles and manes.
step 07
Add the flags and other details, such as the swords and shields.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to create a cohesive and dynamic composition.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Achieve the metallic tones of the armor by mixing ivory black, titanium white, and a touch of yellow ochre. Create the flesh tones by mixing cadmium red, yellow ochre, and titanium white.

techniques

·glazing
·scumbling
·chiaroscuro
·atmospheric perspective
·figure drawing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure.
→Inaccurate proportions of the figures and horses.
→Ignoring the effects of light and shadow.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas (24x36 inches)
·oil paints (burnt umber, yellow ochre, ivory black, titanium white, cadmium red, ultramarine blue, raw sienna)
·linseed oil
·turpentine
·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
·palette
·palette knife
·rags