plate no. 6914
Ecce Homo!
Mihaly Munkacsy, 1896
experienced study
Recreating this painting will develop skills in figure drawing, perspective, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to manage a complex composition with many elements.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of figures and architectural elements.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using a limited palette of earth tones.
- step 03
Establish the light source and begin to define the areas of light and shadow.
- step 04
Develop the figures, paying attention to anatomy, gesture, and expression.
- step 05
Refine the architectural details, using perspective to create a sense of depth.
- step 06
Add details to the crowd, varying the poses and expressions of the figures.
- step 07
Glaze layers of color to build up depth and richness.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to create a sense of realism.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth colors with black and white. Use glazes of red and blue to add depth and richness to the shadows.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·compositional arrangement
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of figures
- →Lack of depth in the composition
- →Overworking the details
- →Inconsistent light source
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall value range.
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