plate no. 7650

Femme assise, en robe bleue

Jean Metzinger, 1950

oilCubismportraitfigureportraitstill lifetablebuildings

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into geometric shapes and how to use color and value to create depth and dimension in a cubist style.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a simplified line drawing of the major shapes and forms, focusing on geometric abstraction.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with flat tones, matching the values and hues as closely as possible.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges, paying attention to the interlocking planes and angles.
step 04
Add subtle variations in color and value to create a sense of depth and form.
step 05
Introduce the details of the still life elements, like the teapot and cup.
step 06
Carefully define the edges of the shapes to maintain the cubist structure.
step 07
Add any final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall composition.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to the colors, values, or shapes.

color palette

primary · tan · blue · red · brown

secondary · gray · green · yellow

Mix various shades of tan and brown by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and white. Achieve the blue by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of black for darker shades.

techniques