plate no. 5391

John Hervey, Baron Hervey of Ickworth

oilRococoportraitportraitfigurebookstablechaircoat of arms

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and rendering of light and shadow on the face. It also provides practice in depicting textures like fabric and hair.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure and objects.
step 02
Establish the background with dark, muted tones, gradually building up layers of color.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, including the face, hair, clothing, and hands.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the subtle variations in skin tone and the play of light and shadow.
step 05
Add details to the clothing, such as the folds, buttons, and lace, using a combination of blending and layering techniques.
step 06
Paint the book and table, focusing on accurate perspective and the depiction of textures.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Glaze the painting to unify the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.

color palette

primary · ivory black · burnt umber · cadmium red · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of brown and black for the background and clothing. Use white and red to create flesh tones, and add touches of yellow ochre for warmth.

techniques