plate no. 8819

Esau and Jacob

oil, canvasTenebrismreligious paintingfigurescandlelighttableclothingrabbitreligious scene

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand dramatic lighting techniques and how to model forms using chiaroscuro. It also provides practice in rendering textures of fabric, skin, and fur.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the background with a dark brown or black.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures and objects with mid-tone values.
step 04
Begin to build up the highlights around the candlelight, using lighter shades of the base colors.
step 05
Refine the details of the faces, clothing, and objects, paying close attention to the way the light falls.
step 06
Add the details of the patterned tablecloth.
step 07
Glaze over areas to unify the colors and create depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the dramatic effect.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · yellow ochre · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue

Achieve the warm glow of candlelight by mixing yellow ochre with small amounts of cadmium red and white. Use burnt umber and ivory black for the deep shadows. Mix blue and red for the cooler tones in the clothing.

techniques