plate no. 4809

Portrait of Ewfimia Nosova

Konstantin Somov, 1911

oil, canvasRealismportraitportraitfiguredressfurchairfoliage

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as practicing techniques for depicting complex textures like fur and fabric.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the figure's pose and proportions.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the background, focusing on creating depth.
step 03
Establish the basic skin tones and facial features, paying attention to light and shadow.
step 04
Begin layering details in the dress and fur, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to the dress and fur to enhance the sense of realism.
step 07
Paint the chair and other supporting elements, ensuring they are in proportion and perspective.
step 08
Add final details and adjustments to complete the painting.

color palette

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

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining ivory black, raw umber, and titanium white. Use small amounts of cadmium red and yellow ochre to warm the skin tones. Ultramarine blue can be used to cool down shadows.

techniques