plate no. 5463
John Jackson, the Wood Engraver at Work
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand the use of chiaroscuro to create dramatic lighting and atmosphere. Students will also learn to depict textures and details using visible brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, desk, and window.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure, blocking in the dark areas of the room and the light areas around the lamp.
- step 03
Begin to develop the details of the figure, desk, and other objects, paying attention to the way the light falls on them.
- step 04
Mix and apply the warm and cool tones to create depth and dimension.
- step 05
Refine the details and add highlights to create a sense of realism.
- step 06
Add the moon and the night sky seen through the window.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors as needed to create a cohesive and atmospheric painting.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black
secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white
Mix burnt umber and ivory black for the dark areas. Use raw sienna and yellow ochre for the warm highlights, lightening with titanium white.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure
- →Using colors that are too saturated
- →Ignoring the effect of light on the objects
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retouch varnish
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for sufficient detail. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base value.
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