plate no. 5808
Epitaph of Goldsmith
Bartholomeus Spranger, 1593
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in capturing realistic skin tones and textures.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 40 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the major figures and composition.
- step 02
Establish the background tones and the general lighting scheme.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures, focusing on accurate proportions and anatomy.
- step 04
Develop the drapery folds and highlights, paying attention to how light interacts with the fabric.
- step 05
Refine the facial features and expressions of each figure.
- step 06
Add details to the background elements, such as the clouds and the skull.
- step 07
Create depth and atmosphere by layering glazes and adjusting values.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · red ochre · raw umber · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · cadmium red light
Skin tones are achieved by mixing red ochre, raw umber, and titanium white. Use ultramarine blue and raw umber to create the darker areas of the background and clothing. Mix cadmium red light with white for the highlights on the red drapery.
techniques
- ·figure drawing
- ·drapery rendering
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Inaccurate proportions of the figures.
- →Overly harsh or flat lighting.
- →Lack of depth and atmosphere.
- →Poor blending of colors.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·medium gloss
- ·painting easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium-sized canvas (e.g., 18x24 inches) is recommended.
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