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home·artworks·Fountain of the Gate of Eski (old) Serai
Fountain of the Gate of Eski (old) Serai by John Frederick Lewis

plate no. 5181

Fountain of the Gate of Eski (old) Serai

John Frederick Lewis, 1838

lithographyOrientalismillustrationfountainarchitecturefigurescityscapetreesbuilding
experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in linear perspective, architectural rendering, and creating depth using subtle value changes. It will also improve attention to detail and patience in replicating intricate patterns.

technical profile

palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the fountain, buildings, and figures.

  2. step 02

    Establish the horizon line and vanishing points for accurate perspective.

  3. step 03

    Begin adding details to the fountain, starting with the main structural elements and then moving to the intricate patterns and carvings.

  4. step 04

    Develop the surrounding buildings and landscape, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.

  5. step 05

    Add the figures and animals, using simple shapes to represent their forms.

  6. step 06

    Refine the values and shading, using darker tones to create depth and dimension.

  7. step 07

    Add highlights to create a sense of light and atmosphere.

  8. step 08

    Make final adjustments to the details and values to achieve a cohesive and balanced composition.

color palette

primary · sepia · ivory black · raw umber

secondary · light grey · cream

Achieve the various shades of brown and grey by mixing sepia with ivory black and raw umber. Use white to lighten the tones and create highlights.

techniques

  • ·linear perspective
  • ·hatching and cross-hatching
  • ·value shading
  • ·architectural rendering
  • ·atmospheric perspective

common pitfalls

  • →Incorrect perspective leading to distorted shapes
  • →Overworking the details and losing the overall composition
  • →Inconsistent value ranges creating a flat image
  • →Ignoring the atmospheric perspective and depth

materials

surface · smooth drawing paper

required

  • ·graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
  • ·eraser
  • ·ruler
  • ·drawing paper (smooth surface)
  • ·fine liner pens (various sizes)
  • ·sepia ink
  • ·fine detail brush

optional

  • ·watercolor pencils
  • ·tortillon
  • ·kneaded eraser

Use high-quality drawing paper that can withstand erasing and layering. A smooth surface will allow for finer details.

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