
plate no. 5207
Recreating this painting would develop skills in rendering a wide variety of animal forms and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It would also challenge the student to manage a complex composition with many elements.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of major elements like the tree, the ark in the distance, and the groups of animals.
Establish the background using thin washes of color, focusing on atmospheric perspective to create depth. Lighter, cooler colors should be used for distant elements.
Block in the larger shapes of the trees and foliage, paying attention to the variations in color and value.
Start adding details to the animals, working from general shapes to specific features. Pay attention to the proportions and anatomy of each animal.
Develop the foreground details, including the plants, water, and smaller animals. Use darker values and sharper details to create a sense of depth.
Refine the lighting and shadows throughout the painting to create a sense of volume and form.
Add the final details, such as the birds in the sky and the figures leading the animals.
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and create a sense of atmosphere.
color palette
primary · earthy browns · greens · blues · ivory black
secondary · reds · yellow ochre · grays
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and using a limited palette. Use glazes of transparent colors to create depth and luminosity.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein

Girl with a Straw Hat
Judith Leyster

Gezicht Op De Laurenskerk Gezien Vanuit Noordoosten
Abraham Storck

Bathsheba Bathing
Francesco Solimena

Repentant Peter
Guido Reni

Itinerant Musicians
Jacob Ochtervelt

Marie Christine
Marcello Bacciarelli

Santa Cecilia E Due Angeli
Giulio Cesare Procaccini

Scene from the Life of Saint Benedict
Philippe de Champaigne