plate no. 2322

Model Class at the Copenhagen Academy

oilNeoclassicismgenre paintingfiguresanatomystudentsclassroomsculptureslight

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand the use of chiaroscuro to create depth and drama, as well as how to accurately depict human anatomy and form. It also offers practice in rendering different textures and materials, such as skin, fabric, and stone.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main figures and the overall composition.
step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest areas to define the value structure.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the warm tones of the figures and the cooler tones of the background.
step 04
Develop the anatomical details of the figures, paying close attention to the play of light and shadow.
step 05
Add details to the background sculptures and the students in the foreground.
step 06
Refine the edges and transitions between values to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 07
Glaze thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the luminosity.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.

color palette

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

secondary · burnt sienna · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of skin tones by combining titanium white, yellow ochre, and small amounts of burnt sienna and cadmium red light. Use raw umber and ivory black to create the dark shadows and background tones.

techniques