plate no. 8383

Ottilia and Christy Marstrand, the Artist’s daughters

oil, canvasRomanticismportraitchildrenportraitfigureslandscapetreesdoll

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering skin tones, as well as practicing atmospheric perspective in the background.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures.
step 02
Establish the background with broad strokes, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow patterns.
step 04
Refine the facial features, focusing on capturing the likeness and expression of each child.
step 05
Add details to the clothing and accessories, such as the folds in the fabric and the doll.
step 06
Develop the textures of the hair and skin using layering and blending techniques.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · sap green

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and cadmium red to create skin tones, adjusting the proportions to achieve the desired warmth.

techniques