plate no. 4858

Jeanne Paquin Gown

George Barbier, 1914

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)illustrationfiguregownstatuefountainarchitecturecolumns

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating a stylized composition with a limited color palette. It also provides practice in achieving smooth, even color application.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes: figure, statue, fountain, and architectural elements.
step 02
Refine the sketch, paying attention to proportions and details of the gown and statue.
step 03
Apply a base layer of blue for the background, ensuring even coverage.
step 04
Paint the figure's skin tones with a light peach color, adding subtle shadows.
step 05
Render the gown with varying shades of blue, creating folds and highlights.
step 06
Paint the statue with a muted green, adding subtle shading to define its form.
step 07
Add details to the fountain and architectural elements with white and light gray.
step 08
Outline key areas with a fine brush to enhance definition and create a graphic style.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · peach

secondary · muted green · light gray · brown

Mix different shades of blue by adding white or a touch of brown to the ultramarine blue. Create the peach tone by mixing white, yellow, and a tiny amount of red.

techniques