plate no. 4785

Portrait of Charles Alexandre de Calonne

oil, canvasRococoportraitfigureportraitchaircurtaindeskwriting

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabrics and textures. It also provides practice in creating depth and form through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the figure, chair, desk, and background.
step 02
Establish the overall composition and proportions.
step 03
Block in the main color areas: background, clothing, skin tones, and drapery.
step 04
Develop the background with subtle variations in tone and color.
step 05
Refine the figure's features, paying close attention to light and shadow.
step 06
Add details to the clothing, chair, and desk, including textures and patterns.
step 07
Paint the hands and face with careful attention to detail and expression.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of realism and depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · crimson red · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · gold

Mix skin tones using white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Achieve the dark blacks by mixing ivory black with burnt umber. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques