plate no. 8952
In the Presence of the Lord
Francesc Masriera, 1891
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex textures and patterns, as well as understanding subtle color variations to create depth and form. It also provides practice in portraiture and capturing the likeness of a subject.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic figure proportions and pose on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the main areas of color for the background, skin tones, and clothing.
- step 03
Start building up the values and tones in the face, paying attention to light and shadow.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the clothing, focusing on the patterns and textures.
- step 05
Work on the jewelry and ornaments, capturing their intricate designs and reflective qualities.
- step 06
Refine the background, adding depth and atmosphere.
- step 07
Add final highlights and details to the entire painting.
- step 08
Glaze to unify the colors and add depth.
color palette
primary · ivory black · titanium white · burnt umber · yellow ochre
secondary · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue · cadmium yellow
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red and umber. Create the gold tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and a touch of white. Darken colors with burnt umber and lighten with white.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·rendering textures
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figure wrong.
- →Oversimplifying the patterns and textures of the clothing.
- →Failing to capture the subtle color variations in the skin tones.
- →Losing the overall sense of depth and atmosphere.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·alizarin crimson oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium such as linseed oil can be used to thin the paints and improve flow.
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