plate no. 0215

Hunters in the Snow (after Pieter Bruegel the Elder)

oilNorthern Renaissancegenre paintingwinter landscapefigurestreessnowvillageice skating

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective, rendering complex textures like snow and tree bark, and creating a sense of depth through layering and detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the major compositional elements: the trees, buildings, figures, and distant landscape.
step 02
Establish the sky and distant mountains using thin washes of diluted paint, focusing on subtle color variations to create atmospheric perspective.
step 03
Block in the larger shapes of the trees with dark browns and blacks, paying attention to the branching patterns.
step 04
Add the snow-covered ground, varying the tones of white and gray to create depth and form.
step 05
Paint the buildings and other architectural elements, focusing on accurate perspective and detail.
step 06
Add the figures and animals, using small brushstrokes to suggest movement and activity.
step 07
Refine the details of the trees, adding texture and highlights to the bark.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · Prussian blue

secondary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre · cadmium red

Mix various shades of gray by combining white with small amounts of black, blue, and brown. Use thin washes of blue and white to create the hazy atmosphere of the distant landscape. Mix browns with blues and reds to create the dark tones of the trees.

techniques