plate no. 6552

Japan

Lilla Cabot Perry, 1900

oilImpressionismlandscapetreeslandscapestone lanterntombstonesfoliagearchitecture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create texture and depth, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective and how it affects color and detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the lantern, tombstones, and trees, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the overall composition.
step 03
Apply a thin underpainting of burnt umber or a similar earth tone to establish the values and create a warm base.
step 04
Begin layering in the greens and blues of the foliage, using short, broken brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Add the purples and grays of the stone structures, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 06
Use a palette knife or thick brushstrokes to add highlights and texture to the moss and foliage.
step 07
Refine the details of the lantern and tombstones, adding small touches of color and value to create interest.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · sap green · ultramarine blue · purple · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · cadmium yellow

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and use white to lighten the values. Create the purples by mixing reds and blues. Use burnt umber to create shadows and earth tones.

techniques