plate no. 2549
Portrait of O. P. Zhdanovich
Pavel Fedotov, 1847
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in rendering realistic skin tones and fabric textures. Students will also learn about creating depth through subtle value changes and atmospheric perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure.
- step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of muted colors.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, paying attention to the overall value structure.
- step 04
Develop the skin tones with layers of subtle color variations, focusing on light and shadow.
- step 05
Render the clothing, capturing the folds and textures of the fabric.
- step 06
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 07
Refine the background and add any remaining details, such as the table and objects.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the painting and enhance the colors.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna
Mix skin tones by blending yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and titanium white, with small amounts of alizarin crimson and ultramarine blue to adjust the temperature. Use raw umber and ivory black for shadows and darker areas.
techniques
- ·portrait painting
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Overmixing colors, resulting in muddy tones.
- →Neglecting the importance of accurate proportions.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Getting lost in details too early in the process.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to improve the flow and blending of the paints.
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