plate no. 6391

Portrait of Dr. Mason Fitch Cogswell

oilRococoportraitportraitfigurebooksdraperyclothinginterior

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and capturing likeness, as well as rendering fabric and creating a sense of depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
step 03
Develop the background, focusing on the drapery and bookshelf.
step 04
Begin refining the features of the face, paying close attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Add details to the clothing, including the collar and buttons.
step 06
Refine the hands and the book.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to the face and clothing.
step 08
Glaze to unify the colors and add depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium yellow

secondary · burnt sienna · alizarin crimson

Mix various shades of brown and black by combining raw umber, burnt sienna, and ivory black. Use titanium white to create highlights and lighter skin tones. Mix alizarin crimson and burnt sienna for the drapery.

techniques