plate no. 8338

Judith with the Head of Holofernes

oilMannerism (Late Renaissance)self-portraitfigureportraitdraperyheadknifejewelry

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as rendering complex fabrics and textures with subtle color variations. Students will also learn about chiaroscuro and how to use light and shadow to create depth and drama.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Develop the background drapery, paying attention to the folds and shadows.
step 04
Begin refining the features of Judith's face, focusing on accurate proportions and subtle shading.
step 05
Add the details of Judith's clothing, including the intricate patterns and textures.
step 06
Paint the head of Holofernes, paying attention to the details of the face and hair.
step 07
Refine the details of the hands and the knife.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

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

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, cadmium red, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber. Create the dark, rich colors of the drapery by mixing ivory black, burnt umber, and cadmium red. Use ultramarine blue to create the blue hues in the dress.

techniques