plate no. 2999

Inspiration of Saint Matthew

oil, canvasBaroquereligious paintingfigureangelsainttablebookdrapery

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in chiaroscuro, figure drawing, and rendering drapery folds. It also provides practice in creating a focal point through dramatic lighting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the table.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a mix of black and burnt umber.
step 03
Block in the main areas of light on the figures and drapery with a mid-tone.
step 04
Start building up the highlights on the figures, paying close attention to the anatomy and the direction of the light.
step 05
Develop the shadows, using darker values to create depth and volume.
step 06
Refine the details of the faces, hands, and drapery folds.
step 07
Add the halo and any other small details.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and adjust the values.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

Achieve the flesh tones by mixing titanium white, burnt sienna, and a touch of cadmium red light. Use raw umber and ivory black to create the dark background and shadows. Mix yellow ochre with white for the halo.

techniques