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home·artworks·Monsieur Baroy
Monsieur Baroy by Antonio de la Gándara

plate no. 7126

Monsieur Baroy

Antonio de la Gándara, 1883

oilRealismportraitfigureportraittablepitchermugclothing
some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice portraiture and rendering of different textures, such as skin, fabric, and ceramic. Students can also learn about creating depth and atmosphere through subtle value changes and soft edges.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, table, and objects.

  2. step 02

    Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the dark background and the mid-tones of the figure and objects.

  3. step 03

    Begin refining the facial features, paying attention to the subtle shifts in value and color.

  4. step 04

    Develop the details of the clothing, table, and objects, focusing on their textures and forms.

  5. step 05

    Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.

  6. step 06

    Refine the edges and blend the colors to create a soft, atmospheric effect.

  7. step 07

    Add the floral details to the mug.

  8. step 08

    Make final adjustments to the values and colors to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · viridian · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix ivory black and raw umber for the dark background and clothing. Use white and cadmium red light for skin tones, adjusting the ratio for highlights and shadows. Mix viridian and white for the green pitcher. Use yellow ochre to create the warm tones of the table.

techniques

  • ·portraiture
  • ·value studies
  • ·blending
  • ·soft edges
  • ·rendering textures

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early
  • →Ignoring the overall value structure
  • →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing
  • →Creating harsh edges
  • →Incorrect proportions of the figure

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·ivory black oil paint
  • ·raw umber oil paint
  • ·titanium white oil paint
  • ·cadmium red light oil paint
  • ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
  • ·palette
  • ·linseed oil

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·medium gloss
  • ·painting easel

Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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