plate no. 2391
Portrait of a Kleptomaniac
Théodore Géricault, 1822
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing likeness and using subtle value changes to model form. It also provides practice in creating a limited palette and achieving a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
5
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the figure's proportions and placement on the canvas.
- 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 areas of color, focusing on the skin tones, hair, clothing, and background.
- step 04
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 05
Develop the details of the clothing and hair, adding highlights and shadows to create form.
- step 06
Soften edges and blend colors to create a sense of atmosphere and depth.
- step 07
Add final highlights and details to the face and clothing.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to adjust the overall tone and saturation.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre · alizarin crimson
Skin tones can be achieved by mixing burnt umber, raw sienna, and titanium white, with small amounts of alizarin crimson for warmth. Darker areas can be created by adding ivory black to the mixture.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated or bright.
- →Neglecting to soften edges and blend colors.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·oil paints (burnt umber, raw sienna, titanium white, ivory black, yellow ochre, alizarin crimson)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette knife
- ·rags or paper towels
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-grit canvas for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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