plate no. 1592

Portrait of Iza Axentowiczowa née Giełgud

Józef Mehoffer, 1907

oilPost-Impressionismportraitportraitwomanred jackethatchairfloral background

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering clothing folds. It also offers a chance to explore color mixing and layering techniques to achieve depth and form.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and chair on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the red jacket, white blouse, and skin tones.
step 03
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the light and shadow to create form.
step 04
Add details to the clothing, such as buttons, folds, and trim.
step 05
Paint the background, using a loose and expressive brushstroke.
step 06
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to the face, clothing, and background.
step 08
Let dry and apply a varnish for protection.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · viridian · alizarin crimson

Mix various shades of red by combining cadmium red with alizarin crimson and burnt umber. Create skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, titanium white, and a touch of red. Use viridian and burnt umber to create the dark greens in the background and hat.

techniques