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home·artworks·Jerusalem Triptychon
Jerusalem Triptychon by Matthias Laurenz Gräff

plate no. 9583

Jerusalem Triptychon

Matthias Laurenz Gräff

oilExpressionismreligious paintingfigureslandscapemountainsarchitecturereligioussky
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in blocking in shapes with bold colors and creating dynamic compositions with multiple focal points. It's also a good exercise in simplifying complex scenes into manageable forms.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic composition, dividing the canvas into three sections.

  2. step 02

    Block in the large shapes and areas of color for the background landscapes.

  3. step 03

    Establish the main figures (Jesus, woman, figure with cross) with simple outlines.

  4. step 04

    Fill in the figures with base colors, focusing on the drapery and skin tones.

  5. step 05

    Add details to the architectural elements and landscape features.

  6. step 06

    Refine the figures' features and clothing, adding highlights and shadows.

  7. step 07

    Define the outlines with darker colors to create separation and emphasis.

  8. step 08

    Add final touches and details to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · white · blue · brown · red

secondary · yellow · green · black

Mix various shades of brown and tan for the landscape. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix green with yellow and blue to achieve different foliage tones.

techniques

  • ·blocking in
  • ·outlining
  • ·color mixing
  • ·impasto
  • ·simplification

common pitfalls

  • →Overcomplicating the details too early.
  • →Not establishing a clear value structure.
  • →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
  • →Losing the overall composition by focusing on individual elements.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·Stretched canvas (24x36 inches)
  • ·Acrylic or oil paints
  • ·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
  • ·Palette
  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
  • ·Odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
  • ·Rags

optional

  • ·Medium gloss
  • ·Easel
  • ·Apron

Using a larger canvas will allow for more detail. Acrylic paints are more beginner-friendly due to their faster drying time.

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related guides

oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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