plate no. 7892

Mary Curzon (1585–1645), Countess of Dorset

oilNeoclassicismportraitportraitfiguredresslacecarpetcurtain

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex fabric patterns and capturing realistic skin tones. It also provides practice in depicting intricate details like lace and jewelry.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure, focusing on the light and shadow patterns.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the background, dress, and skin.
step 04
Begin adding details to the face, paying attention to subtle value changes.
step 05
Develop the patterns on the dress, working from large shapes to smaller details.
step 06
Render the lace collar and cuffs, focusing on the delicate texture.
step 07
Add details to the carpet and background curtain.
step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting values and adding final details.

color palette

primary · ivory · crimson · umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · gold ochre · rose madder

Achieve the dress's pattern by mixing ivory with small amounts of umber, crimson, and blue. Skin tones are created with ivory, rose madder, and a touch of umber.

techniques