plate no. 5247

In a lesson of credence with the sexton

Ivan Vladimirov, 1913

oilRealismgenre paintingfiguresinteriortablechildrenreligious figureroom

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in depicting figures in a dimly lit interior and capturing subtle variations in skin tones and fabric textures. Students will learn to create a sense of depth and atmosphere using value and color.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and figures, paying attention to proportions and perspective.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the darkest and lightest areas.
step 03
Begin layering in the mid-tones, focusing on the warm and cool color relationships.
step 04
Develop the details of the faces and clothing, using smaller brushes.
step 05
Add highlights to create a sense of light and form.
step 06
Refine the edges and details, paying attention to the overall harmony of the painting.
step 07
Glaze thin layers of color to adjust the values and create depth.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · burnt sienna · ivory black

secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

Mix raw umber and ivory black for dark shadows. Use burnt sienna and yellow ochre for warm highlights. Add small amounts of ultramarine blue to cool down the browns.

techniques