plate no. 1890

León Bonnat

bronzeNeoclassicismportraitportraitbustfigurebronzeman

some experience helpful

Recreating this portrait will help students understand form and structure through value and texture. It's a good exercise in observing subtle shifts in light and shadow on a complex surface.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the bust.
step 02
Establish the overall value range with a mid-tone wash.
step 03
Block in the darkest shadows, paying attention to the planes of the face and clothing.
step 04
Add highlights to define the form and create a sense of depth.
step 05
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add texture to the beard and hair using short, broken strokes.
step 07
Adjust the values and contrasts to create a sense of realism.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · yellow ochre

Mix raw umber and ivory black to create a range of dark grays. Add titanium white to lighten the values. Use burnt umber and yellow ochre sparingly to add warmth to the highlights.

techniques