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home·artworks·Portrait of Mme Borg de Balsan
Portrait of Mme Borg de Balsan by Theodore Chasseriau

plate no. 6697

Portrait of Mme Borg de Balsan

Theodore Chasseriau, 1847

oilNeoclassicismportraitportraitfiguredresswomaninterior
some experience helpful

This drawing focuses on capturing form and light using line and shading. Recreating it will help students develop skills in proportion, anatomy, and rendering textures with graphite.

technical profile

palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the overall proportions and pose of the figure.

  2. step 02

    Establish the main shapes of the head, torso, and dress.

  3. step 03

    Refine the facial features, paying attention to the angles and proportions.

  4. step 04

    Add details to the hair, clothing, and accessories.

  5. step 05

    Begin adding shading to define the form and create depth.

  6. step 06

    Use cross-hatching and varying line weights to create different textures.

  7. step 07

    Pay attention to the light source and create highlights and shadows accordingly.

  8. step 08

    Refine the details and add finishing touches.

color palette

primary · graphite · white

secondary ·

Varying pressure and layering will create different shades of gray.

techniques

  • ·hatching
  • ·cross-hatching
  • ·blending
  • ·line weight variation
  • ·contour drawing

common pitfalls

  • →Incorrect proportions
  • →Overworking the drawing
  • →Inconsistent shading
  • →Ignoring the light source

materials

surface · Smooth drawing paper

required

  • ·Graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
  • ·Eraser
  • ·Sketchbook or drawing paper
  • ·Kneaded eraser
  • ·Blending stump

optional

  • ·Ruler
  • ·Compass
  • ·Fixative spray

Use a variety of graphite pencils to achieve different values and textures. A smooth paper will allow for easier blending.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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