plate no. 9703

Paris Society

Max Beckmann, 1947

oil, canvasExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresportraitssocietyindoorsclothingparty

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork, color mixing for skin tones, and simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with exaggerated features and emotional expression.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, using thin washes to establish the overall tone.
step 03
Start building up the darker values, defining the shapes and forms of the figures.
step 04
Mix and apply skin tones, paying attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Add details to the faces and clothing, using expressive brushstrokes to convey emotion.
step 06
Refine the background, using loose brushwork to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create contrast and dimension.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, or value.