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home·artworks·Homework by Lamp Light
Homework by Lamp Light by Harriet Backer

plate no. 5570

Homework by Lamp Light

Harriet Backer, 1890

oil, canvasNaturalismgenre paintinginteriorfiguretablewindowstovechair
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing atmospheric light and shadow, as well as creating a sense of depth through layering and color temperature variations. It also provides practice in painting interior spaces and figures within a scene.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, table, stove, and window.

  2. step 02

    Establish the main light source (the lamp) and map out the areas of light and shadow.

  3. step 03

    Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background walls and floor.

  4. step 04

    Develop the figure and the table, paying attention to the subtle color variations in the light.

  5. step 05

    Paint the stove and other details, focusing on their shapes and textures.

  6. step 06

    Refine the highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.

  7. step 07

    Add final details, such as the curtains and the objects on the table.

  8. step 08

    Step back and adjust the painting as needed to achieve a cohesive and harmonious result.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · viridian green

Mix various shades of brown and gray by blending the primary colors. Use white to lighten the values and create highlights. Use blue and green to create the cool tones in the background.

techniques

  • ·underpainting
  • ·scumbling
  • ·glazing
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·broken color

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early.
  • →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
  • →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
  • →Ignoring the subtle color variations in the light and shadow.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·oil paints
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·assorted brushes
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine

optional

  • ·painting medium
  • ·varnish
  • ·easel

Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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