plate no. 8327

Palermo cathedral, drawing by Leitch, engraving by J.H. Le Keux

oilRomanticismcityscapecathedralarchitecturecityscapefiguresskystreet

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in linear perspective, detailed architectural rendering, and creating depth through value gradations. It also provides practice in depicting figures in a believable setting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and perspective of the cathedral and surrounding buildings.
step 02
Focus on accurately depicting the main architectural features, such as the towers, dome, and arches.
step 03
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points to ensure proper perspective.
step 04
Start adding details to the cathedral, working from large shapes to smaller details.
step 05
Use hatching and cross-hatching to create value and depth.
step 06
Add figures to the scene, paying attention to their scale and placement.
step 07
Refine the details and values to create a sense of realism.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and depth.