plate no. 9067

Garden of Kama

Byam Shaw, 1914

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)illustrationfigurepeacockstextilesguardsdeathroyalty

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in detailed rendering, pattern creation, and figure painting within a complex composition. It also provides practice in color mixing and achieving a consistent style across various elements.

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 central figure, peacocks, and other figures.
step 02
Block in the main colors for the background, figure, and textiles.
step 03
Develop the details of the central figure, including the face, jewelry, and clothing.
step 04
Paint the peacocks, paying attention to the intricate patterns of their feathers.
step 05
Add the figures on either side of the central figure, focusing on their clothing and weapons.
step 06
Render the patterned textile beneath the central figure.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Refine the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · red · blue · gold · black

secondary · green · yellow · white · brown

Achieve the rich reds by mixing a crimson with a touch of orange. Use ultramarine blue and white for the peacock feathers. Mix browns and yellows to create the gold tones.

techniques