plate no. 2959

Frederikke Hammershøi, the artist's mother

oilImpressionismportraitfigureportraitchairinteriordressheadscarf

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning about limited color palettes and creating subtle value shifts to define form. Students will practice creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through muted tones.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, chair, and background.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of neutral gray.
step 03
Begin blocking in the darkest areas of the dress and background.
step 04
Gradually build up the mid-tones, paying attention to subtle shifts in value.
step 05
Refine the details of the face and hands, using small brushstrokes.
step 06
Add highlights to the headscarf and other areas to create contrast.
step 07
Soften edges and blend colors to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · raw umber

secondary · payne's gray · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of gray by combining ivory black and titanium white. Add small amounts of raw umber or yellow ochre to warm the grays. Use payne's gray for the darkest shadows.

techniques