plate no. 4637

Portrait of a Lady

Philip de Laszlo, 1920

oilImpressionismportraitportraitfiguredresstablechairjewelry

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabric textures with loose brushstrokes. It also provides practice in creating soft, diffused lighting and subtle color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the figure's pose and the main elements of the composition.
step 02
Establish the background with broad, blended strokes of muted colors.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, focusing on accurate proportions and placement.
step 04
Begin refining the facial features, paying close attention to the subtle shifts in value and color.
step 05
Develop the dress and fabric textures with loose, expressive brushstrokes, using a variety of colors and values.
step 06
Add details to the table, chair, and jewelry, using smaller brushes and more precise strokes.
step 07
Refine the overall composition, adjusting values and colors as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · viridian · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining ivory black, raw umber, and titanium white. Add small amounts of cadmium red for warmth and ultramarine blue for coolness. Use viridian to create the green jewelry.

techniques