plate no. 9765
Iknakhaton - Pythagoras
Christo Coetzee, 1979
experienced study
This painting offers a chance to practice portraiture with a limited palette and explore geometric abstraction. Students can learn to create depth using subtle value changes and linear perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the figure, geometric shapes, and sphere.
- step 02
Establish the background using dark washes, gradually building up layers.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure with light and dark values.
- step 04
Refine the facial features, paying attention to subtle value changes.
- step 05
Add the geometric details and linear elements using a fine brush.
- step 06
Paint the sphere, creating highlights and shadows to give it form.
- step 07
Add final details and adjust values as needed.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the painting.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt sienna · ivory black
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of raw umber. Use burnt sienna for warm shadows and ivory black for cool shadows.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·linear perspective
- ·portraiture
common pitfalls
- →overworking the details
- →inaccurate proportions
- →muddy colors
- →uneven value distribution
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retouch varnish
- ·painting medium
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish the background color.
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