plate no. 8635

Portrait of Mary Atkins (Mrs. Martin)

oil, canvasRococoportraitportraitfiguredresslacechairbackground

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabric textures. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through subtle color variations and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the proportions and placement of the figure.
step 02
Establish the background with broad, loose strokes of warm browns and ochres.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, including the dress, shawl, and face.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone and color.
step 05
Add details to the dress, such as the folds, ruffles, and lace.
step 06
Render the shawl and other accessories, focusing on their texture and form.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and harmony.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · alizarin crimson

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix various shades of brown and ochre for the background. Use white and crimson to create the pinks and reds of the dress. Mix black and white for the shawl and lace.

techniques