plate no. 5823

Polyptych of Valle Romita

panel, temperaInternational Gothicreligious paintingfiguresreligious scenegoldarchitecturehalorobes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and applying gold leaf or creating a gold-like effect with paint. It also provides practice in creating a complex, multi-paneled composition.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare the surface with gesso and create a grid to map out the composition of the polyptych.
step 02
Sketch the main figures and architectural elements in each panel, focusing on accurate proportions.
step 03
Apply a thin layer of underpainting in earth tones to establish the basic values and forms.
step 04
Begin layering colors, starting with the darkest areas and gradually building up to the highlights.
step 05
Pay close attention to the drapery folds and use subtle shading to create a sense of volume.
step 06
Create the gold background using gold leaf or metallic paint, adding details with fine brushes.
step 07
Refine the details of the figures, including facial features, hands, and clothing.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall depth and realism of the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · vermilion · gold

secondary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre

Achieve the rich blues by layering ultramarine with a touch of black. Create the reds by mixing vermilion with a touch of yellow ochre for warmth. Simulate gold with a mix of yellow ochre, raw sienna, and a touch of metallic gold paint.

techniques

·egg tempera technique
·layering
·glazing
·gilding (or faux gilding)
·linear perspective

common pitfalls

→Incorrect proportions of figures.
→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Uneven application of gold leaf or metallic paint.
→Lack of contrast in values, resulting in a flat appearance.

materials

surface · gessoed wood panel

required

·gessoed panel
·egg tempera paints
·fine detail brushes
·gold leaf or metallic gold paint
·palette
·water
·soft cloth
·varnish

optional

·palette knife
·medium (for tempera)
·tracing paper

Using a smooth gessoed panel is crucial for achieving the fine details and smooth surface of the original painting. Experiment with different brands of gold leaf or metallic paint to find the best option for your budget and desired effect.

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