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home·artworks·Mural in bas-relief surrounded by garlands of flowers
Mural in bas-relief surrounded by garlands of flowers by Erasmus Quellinus the Younger

plate no. 4508

Mural in bas-relief surrounded by garlands of flowers

Erasmus Quellinus the Younger

oil, canvasBaroquestill lifeflowersbustgarlandstill lifebutterfliessculpture
experienced study

This painting offers practice in rendering complex floral arrangements and creating depth through subtle value changes. Students will learn to depict realistic textures and capture the delicate nature of flowers.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic shapes of the bust, frame, and floral arrangement, focusing on proportions and placement.

  2. step 02

    Establish the dark background using a thin wash of dark brown or black.

  3. step 03

    Block in the main colors of the flowers, leaves, and frame, paying attention to the overall color harmony.

  4. step 04

    Begin layering and blending colors to create depth and dimension in the flowers and foliage.

  5. step 05

    Add highlights and shadows to the bust and frame to create a sense of form and volume.

  6. step 06

    Refine the details of the flowers, leaves, and butterflies, adding texture and definition.

  7. step 07

    Glaze thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the overall mood.

  8. step 08

    Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · sap green · burnt umber · alizarin crimson

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white or black. Use thin glazes of color to create depth and luminosity.

techniques

  • ·glazing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·dry brushing
  • ·blending
  • ·layering

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early.
  • →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
  • →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
  • →Ignoring the importance of negative space.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·oil paints
  • ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife

optional

  • ·painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
  • ·retouch varnish
  • ·easel

Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer of paint to dry before applying the next.

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related guides

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