plate no. 2989

Portrait of Queen Charlotte of the United Kingdom, with Windsor and the royal family in the background

oil, canvasRococoportraitportraitfiguredresscolumndraperydog

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in portraiture, including accurate proportions and rendering of skin tones, as well as the ability to depict complex fabric folds and textures. Students will also learn about creating depth and atmosphere through subtle color variations and glazing techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figure, column, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the main light and shadow areas using a limited palette of earth tones.
step 03
Block in the local colors of the dress, drapery, and background, paying attention to color temperature and value.
step 04
Begin refining the details of the face, focusing on accurate proportions and subtle gradations of skin tone.
step 05
Develop the textures of the dress and drapery, using layering and glazing techniques to create depth and luminosity.
step 06
Add details to the background figures and Windsor Castle, keeping them soft and atmospheric.
step 07
Refine the details of the column, crown, and other accessories, paying attention to highlights and shadows.
step 08
Add final details, such as the dog and the intricate patterns on the carpet.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ivory black · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · raw sienna · alizarin crimson

Achieve the pale skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and a touch of cadmium red light. Create the various shades of red in the drapery by mixing cadmium red light with alizarin crimson and burnt umber.

techniques