plate no. 3625

Portrait of a Businessman K. Artsybushev

oil, canvasRealismportraitportraitmanchairbooksinteriordesk

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding how to create depth and form using subtle value changes and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure and key elements.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, chair, and background, using simplified color masses.
step 04
Begin refining the facial features, paying close attention to the light and shadow on the face.
step 05
Develop the details of the clothing, books, and other objects, using a variety of brushstrokes to create texture.
step 06
Refine the background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to adjust the overall tone and unify the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, ivory black, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and cadmium red to create warm skin tones, and ultramarine blue to create cool shadows.

techniques