plate no. 0999

Peasant Portrait

M. H. Maxy, 1931

oilCubismportraitportraitfiguremanclothingheadcubist

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and use color to define planes and create depth. It also provides practice in using visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy to the painting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, focusing on the geometric structure.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of green and yellow ochre.
step 03
Establish the darkest values in the face and clothing using burnt umber and a touch of black.
step 04
Mix the mid-tone colors for the skin using burnt sienna, white, and a touch of yellow ochre, and apply them to the appropriate planes.
step 05
Add highlights to the face and clothing using lighter tints of the skin tones.
step 06
Paint the white clothing with a mix of white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber to create subtle variations in tone.
step 07
Refine the details of the face and clothing, paying attention to the edges of the planes.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · green

Mix skin tones by combining burnt sienna and white, adjusting with small amounts of yellow ochre and burnt umber. Achieve the background green by mixing yellow ochre with a touch of blue or green.

techniques

·blocking in
·geometric abstraction
·visible brushstrokes
·color temperature
·planar analysis

common pitfalls

→Over-blending the colors, which will flatten the forms.
→Losing the geometric structure of the composition.
→Failing to create enough contrast between the light and dark planes.
→Using too much detail, which will detract from the overall effect.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints
·burnt sienna
·titanium white
·yellow ochre
·burnt umber
·green paint
·#6 flat brush

optional

·palette knife
·medium gloss
·easel

Use a medium-grain canvas to allow for good paint adhesion and texture. Acrylics are beginner-friendly, while oils offer richer colors and blending capabilities.

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