plate no. 1534

Old Woman

oil, canvasNew Realismportraitportraitfigureold womanchairclothingindoor

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly capturing likeness and expression with loose brushstrokes, and understanding how to use a limited palette to create depth and form.

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 of the figure and chair, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of neutral color, creating a sense of depth.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color for the figure's skin, clothing, and hair, using broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the subtle shifts in value and color.
step 05
Add details to the clothing and chair, using thicker paint and more defined brushstrokes.
step 06
Create highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create a sense of volume.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition and color balance to achieve a harmonious effect.
step 08
Add final details and refine edges as needed.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · alizarin crimson

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and white. Use ultramarine blue and alizarin crimson to create purples and grays for shadows and clothing.

techniques