plate no. 6987

Madonna Rocaille

oilSurrealismreligious paintingfigurearchitecturesurrealreligiousportraitlandscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in layering, blending, and creating subtle tonal variations to achieve a surreal and complex composition. Students will also learn to depict intricate details and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a detailed sketch outlining the major shapes and forms, paying close attention to the optical illusion.
step 02
Establish the background with a light blue wash for the sky and darker greens for the implied landscape.
step 03
Begin layering the face with light yellows and ochres, gradually building up the form and shadows.
step 04
Define the architectural elements with a mix of browns and grays, adding details like the statues and arch.
step 05
Paint the figures in the lower portion with warm tones, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow.
step 06
Refine the details of the face, adding subtle highlights and shadows to create depth and realism.
step 07
Add final touches to the architectural elements, enhancing the textures and details.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect it and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · cerulean blue · sap green · raw sienna

Achieve the skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, titanium white, and a touch of burnt umber. Use cerulean blue and titanium white for the sky, and sap green with burnt umber for the landscape.

techniques