plate no. 1543

Mademoiselle De Maupinmademoiselle De Maupin

Jean Lecomte du Nouÿ, 1902

oilRomanticismnude painting (nu)figureinteriorfurniturelighttablewindow

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic skin tones and capturing dramatic lighting effects. It also provides practice in depicting complex interior spaces and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main figures, furniture, and architectural elements.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the dark areas and areas of light.
step 03
Start with the background, focusing on the subtle color variations in the wall and furniture.
step 04
Move on to the figures, paying close attention to the highlights and shadows on the skin.
step 05
Develop the details of the clothing, table, and other objects, adding texture and form.
step 06
Refine the lighting effects, enhancing the contrast between light and shadow.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create a sense of realism.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the colors and create depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

Mix ivory black and raw umber for the dark shadows. Use yellow ochre and titanium white for the highlights. Mix cadmium red light and titanium white for the skin tones. Use ultramarine blue to create the cool shadows.

techniques