plate no. 5106

Nature morte cubiste

Louis Marcoussis, 1914

oilCubismstill lifestill lifebottleglasscubestablegeometric shapes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand the principles of cubism, including breaking down objects into geometric forms and representing multiple viewpoints simultaneously. It will also improve their ability to create depth and form using subtle value changes within a limited color palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color with thin washes, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin to define the shapes of the bottle, glass, and cubes with darker values.
step 04
Add subtle variations in color and value to create depth and dimension.
step 05
Refine the edges of the shapes, paying attention to the overlapping planes.
step 06
Add details such as the highlights on the glass and the shadows cast by the cubes.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to achieve a harmonious composition.
step 08
Add the signature 'MARCOUSSIS 1914'

color palette

primary · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white

secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre

Achieve the various shades of brown and beige by mixing raw umber, burnt sienna, and white in different proportions. Use small amounts of black to create darker values and shadows.

techniques