plate no. 9346

Harlequin, Pierrot and Scapin

oil, canvasRococoportraitfiguresclownsportraitcurtainstatueflowers

experienced study

This painting offers a chance to practice rendering figures in complex poses and capturing subtle skin tones. Students can also improve their understanding of composition and color harmony.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures and background elements.
step 02
Establish the main light source and areas of shadow.
step 03
Block in the background colors, starting with the curtain and statue.
step 04
Begin painting the figures, focusing on the overall skin tones and clothing colors.
step 05
Refine the details of the faces, paying attention to the subtle shifts in color and value.
step 06
Add details to the clothing, such as the ruffles, patterns, and folds.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and harmony.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · ivory black

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red and umber. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create muted grays and browns for shadows.

techniques