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home·artworks·Hunted Down
Hunted Down by John Pettie

plate no. 3751

Hunted Down

John Pettie, 1877

oilRomanticismgenre paintingfigurekiltswordrockcavelandscape
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure painting, including anatomy and rendering of light and shadow on skin, as well as creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through tonal variations.

technical profile

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

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Create a rough sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figure and the surrounding environment.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color, focusing on the overall light and shadow patterns.

  3. step 03

    Develop the figure's anatomy, paying attention to the subtle shifts in tone and color to create a sense of volume.

  4. step 04

    Add details to the kilt, carefully rendering the patterns and textures of the fabric.

  5. step 05

    Refine the background, using loose brushstrokes to suggest the textures of the rock and the darkness of the cave.

  6. step 06

    Work on the sword, capturing the metallic sheen and sharp edges.

  7. step 07

    Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to create a cohesive and atmospheric effect.

  8. step 08

    Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, and titanium white. Use small amounts of cadmium red and ultramarine blue to create subtle variations in skin tones and shadows.

techniques

  • ·underpainting
  • ·glazing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·figure drawing

common pitfalls

  • →Incorrect proportions of the figure.
  • →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
  • →Failing to create a convincing sense of depth.
  • →Inaccurate rendering of light and shadow.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas (18x24 inches)
  • ·oil paints
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·rags

optional

  • ·medium gloss
  • ·retouch varnish
  • ·easel

Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Prepare the canvas with a layer of gesso before painting.

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