plate no. 9769

Junks in Inatori Bay

Shotei Takahashi, 1926

oilShin-hangamarinashipswaterskymoonboatslandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create atmospheric perspective and capturing the subtle reflections of light on water. Students will also learn to simplify complex shapes into basic forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the ships, horizon line, and mountain.
step 02
Establish the gradient of the sky, from yellow to blue.
step 03
Block in the dark tones of the ships, paying attention to their overlapping forms.
step 04
Add the details of the ships, such as the rigging and sails.
step 05
Paint the water, using horizontal strokes to suggest its surface.
step 06
Add the reflections of the ships and the moon in the water.
step 07
Refine the details and add highlights to create depth.
step 08
Add the small boat and figure in the foreground.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Payne's gray

secondary · Titanium white · Burnt umber

Mix Prussian blue and yellow ochre to create the various shades of blue-green in the water. Use Payne's gray to create the dark tones of the ships. Add white to lighten the sky and water.

techniques