plate no. 3841

Pietà with St Francis and Mary Magdalene

oil, canvasBaroquereligious paintingfiguresreligious scenelandscapeskyclothangels

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, anatomy, and creating realistic skin tones. It will also teach them how to depict drapery and create a sense of depth and drama through chiaroscuro.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figures.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Start developing the figures, paying close attention to anatomy and light and shadow.
step 04
Work on the drapery, creating folds and highlights to give it volume and texture.
step 05
Add details to the faces and hands, capturing the emotions of the figures.
step 06
Develop the background landscape, creating depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, ensuring a harmonious balance.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · cadmium red · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix skin tones using white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of umber. Create shadows by adding more umber and blue. Achieve the blue of Mary's robe by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of black for darker areas.

techniques