plate no. 0574

George Macartney, 1st Earl Macartney; Sir George Leonard Staunton, 1st Bt

oilRococoportraitportraitfiguresclothingdocumentschairhistorical

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and rendering of skin tones, as well as understanding how to create depth and form using subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figures and objects.
step 02
Establish the background with a dark, muted tone, gradually building up layers to create depth.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the clothing and skin tones, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Add details to the clothing, such as the lace and buttons, using small brushes and precise strokes.
step 06
Paint the hands and documents, carefully observing the light and shadow patterns.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition, ensuring that the figures are balanced and harmonious.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to create a sense of realism and depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and cadmium red light. Use ivory black and ultramarine blue to create the dark background and clothing. Mix burnt umber and raw sienna for the wooden chair.

techniques