plate no. 1270

Le Vieux Clown

Georges Rouault, 1930

oilExpressionismportraitfigureportraitclownhatseatedscarf

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in using a limited color palette to create a moody atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure, focusing on proportions and composition.
step 02
Block in the background with dark, muted tones, using loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the main areas of color for the figure: the hat, face, clothing, and hands.
step 04
Use thicker paint and bolder brushstrokes to define the outlines and details of the figure.
step 05
Mix and apply the colors for the face, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 06
Add the details of the clothing and accessories, using a combination of thick and thin brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the overall composition and add any final touches to enhance the expressive quality of the painting.
step 08
Consider adding a glaze to unify the colors and add depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt umber

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre · violet

Mix black and white for the grays. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create muted blues and browns. Add small amounts of cadmium red to the face for warmth.

techniques