plate no. 6915

Madonna with Child and Two Angels Gentile da Fabriano

panel, temperaInternational Gothicreligious paintingMadonnaChildAngelsReligious FiguresGold LeafHalo

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure painting, drapery rendering, and applying gold leaf. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare the surface with gesso and let it dry completely.
step 02
Create a detailed underdrawing of the composition, paying attention to proportions and perspective.
step 03
Apply a thin layer of imprimatura (a toned ground) to the canvas.
step 04
Block in the main shapes and colors of the figures and background.
step 05
Develop the values and details of the figures, starting with the darkest areas and working towards the highlights.
step 06
Carefully render the drapery folds and textures, using subtle gradations of color.
step 07
Apply gold leaf to the halos and background, following the contours of the shapes.
step 08
Add final details and glazes to refine the painting and create a sense of depth.

color palette

primary · Ivory Black · Yellow Ochre · Vermillion · Gold

secondary · Burnt Umber · Cadmium Yellow · Alizarin Crimson

Mix ivory black and yellow ochre to create the dark greens of the Madonna's robe. Use vermillion and alizarin crimson for the reds in the undergarments. Mix yellow ochre and cadmium yellow for the angels' robes.

techniques