plate no. 9440

Girl interrupted at her music

oil, canvasBaroquegenre paintingfiguresinteriorwindowtablemusical instrumentshadows

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand chiaroscuro and how to create a sense of depth using subtle value changes. It also provides practice in painting realistic figures and drapery.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the main elements.
step 02
Establish the dark background and the light source from the window.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures' clothing and skin tones.
step 04
Begin to build up the values, paying close attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Refine the details of the faces and hands.
step 06
Add details to the musical instrument and other objects on the table.
step 07
Soften edges and blend colors to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of gray and brown for the background and shadows. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix red and blue for the clothing.

techniques