plate no. 6993
Maria and Annunziata 'from the Harbour'
Christian Schad, 1923
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition and proportions of the figures.
- step 02
Establish the background and main shapes of the clothing.
- step 03
Block in the skin tones using a limited palette.
- step 04
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 05
Add details to the clothing, such as the ruffles and lace.
- step 06
Develop the background elements, including the chair and other objects.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Mix skin tones by blending white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of umber. Use ultramarine blue and black to create the dark blues of the dress. Mix red and umber for the reddish tones in the lower figure's dress.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·color mixing
- ·blending
- ·value study
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the faces wrong.
- →Overworking the skin tones and creating a muddy effect.
- →Failing to capture the subtle value changes that create depth.
- →Ignoring the details in the clothing and background.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette of oil paints to simplify the color mixing process.
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