plate no. 2292
Pierre François Henri Labrouste
some experience helpful
Recreating this drawing will help students develop skills in accurate proportion, shading techniques using hatching and cross-hatching, and capturing likeness in portraiture.
technical profile
palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the proportions of the figure and the chair.
- step 02
Refine the sketch, paying attention to the angles and curves of the body and clothing.
- step 03
Begin adding shading to define the forms, starting with the darkest areas.
- step 04
Use hatching and cross-hatching to build up the values gradually.
- step 05
Pay close attention to the details of the face, capturing the likeness of the subject.
- step 06
Add details to the clothing and chair, using varying line weights to create depth.
- step 07
Soften edges and blend values where necessary to create a smooth transition.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the drawing.
color palette
primary · graphite · white (paper)
secondary ·
Varying the pressure and density of graphite creates different shades.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·blending
- ·line weight variation
- ·portraiture
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions can ruin the likeness.
- →Overworking the shading can make the drawing look muddy.
- →Ignoring the details can make the drawing look unfinished.
- →Uneven line weights can make the drawing look flat.
materials
surface · smooth drawing paper
required
- ·Graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
- ·Eraser
- ·Kneaded eraser
- ·Drawing paper (smooth)
- ·Pencil sharpener
- ·Blending stump
optional
- ·Ruler
- ·Compass
- ·Fixative spray
Use a variety of graphite pencils to achieve a full range of values. A smooth paper will allow for easier blending.
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