plate no. 9817
Interior Guardroom, Soldiers off Duty
Willem Cornelisz Duyster, 1635
experienced study
This painting provides practice in rendering figures in low light and creating a sense of depth through value. Students will also learn to mix subtle earth tones and create texture with brushwork.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures.
- step 02
Establish the dark background using a thin wash of dark brown and black.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures with mid-tone browns and ochres.
- step 04
Begin adding highlights to indicate the light source, focusing on the areas closest to the light.
- step 05
Develop the details of the figures' clothing and faces, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
- step 06
Add texture to the ground and walls using dry brush techniques.
- step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 08
Add final details, such as the glint of light on the armor.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw umber · yellow ochre · ivory black
secondary · burnt sienna · titanium white · van Dyke brown
Mix various shades of brown by combining umber, ochre, and black. Use white sparingly to create highlights, and add a touch of sienna for warmth.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·underpainting
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using too much white, resulting in a chalky appearance.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in tone within the shadows.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth texture for easier blending. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the underpainting process.
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