plate no. 1843

Parto da viola Bom Ménage

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, 1916

oilCubismstill lifeviolinstill lifefiguregeometric shapestablefruit

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex subjects into simple geometric forms and explore color relationships within a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the main objects (violin, figure, fruit).
step 02
Block in the large color areas using simplified shapes, ignoring details for now.
step 03
Refine the shapes and add more detail to the objects, paying attention to the geometric forms.
step 04
Introduce darker values to create contrast and define the edges of the shapes.
step 05
Add highlights and lighter values to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Mix secondary colors to create subtle variations and transitions between color blocks.
step 07
Add details like the violin strings, the figure's features, and the patterns on the tablecloth.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, and value.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · cerulean blue · cadmium red · ivory black

secondary · sap green · violet · burnt sienna

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Create browns and earth tones by mixing red, yellow, and black. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques