plate no. 4132

Entry of Alexander into Babylon

oilBaroquehistory paintingfigureshorsesarchitectureprocessionchariotcityscape

advanced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating atmospheric perspective in a complex composition. It also provides practice in mixing subtle skin tones and depicting various textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of major figures and architectural elements.
step 02
Establish the background with broad washes of color, paying attention to atmospheric perspective.
step 03
Block in the main figures with simplified shapes and values, focusing on accurate proportions.
step 04
Develop the drapery and clothing, paying attention to folds and highlights.
step 05
Refine the facial features and expressions of the figures.
step 06
Add details to the architecture and other elements, such as the horses and chariot.
step 07
Introduce highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Add final details and glazes to unify the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · ivory black

Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and titanium white, with small amounts of cadmium red for warmth. Create atmospheric perspective by adding blue to distant colors.

techniques