plate no. 7115

Odalisque with Mandoline

Iosif Iser, 1943

oilOrientalismportraitfigureportraitinstrumentinteriortextilesclothing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice loose, expressive brushwork and learn how to mix subtle color variations to create form and depth. It also provides an opportunity to study portraiture and figure drawing in a non-traditional setting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and the instrument.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, focusing on the overall color scheme.
step 03
Begin building up layers of paint, using thicker brushstrokes to define the forms and create texture.
step 04
Pay attention to the light and shadow on the figure's face and clothing.
step 05
Add details to the instrument and the background, using smaller brushes.
step 06
Refine the edges and contours of the figure, softening some and sharpening others.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · red · green · brown · white

secondary · pink · yellow · purple

Mix various shades of red and brown for the skin tones and clothing. Use green and yellow to create the highlights on the green robe. Mix white with other colors to create lighter values and highlights.

techniques