plate no. 3048

Performance of Iphigenia in Tauris

oilRomanticismillustrationfiguresarchitecturetreesperformancegardenclothing

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in rendering complex figures and drapery with a limited palette, as well as creating depth through careful value control. Students will also learn to manage a busy composition and create a focal point.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch of the overall composition, paying attention to the placement of figures and architectural elements.
step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a strong foundation for the painting.
step 03
Begin filling in the mid-tones, focusing on the shapes of the figures and their clothing.
step 04
Develop the details of the faces and hands, using subtle variations in value to create form.
step 05
Add the architectural details, paying attention to the perspective and the play of light and shadow.
step 06
Render the foliage and background elements, using a variety of textures to create depth.
step 07
Refine the values and details throughout the painting, ensuring that the focal point remains the most visually interesting area.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of realism.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · raw umber · payne's gray

Use varying ratios of black and white to create a full range of grays. Add small amounts of raw umber or payne's gray to warm or cool the grays as needed.

techniques