plate no. 9114

Portrait of Sophie Cassirer

Lovis Corinth, 1906

oilImpressionismportraitportraitfigurechairdollgirldress

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, capturing likeness and expression, and understanding how to use loose brushwork to suggest form and texture. It also provides practice in mixing subtle color variations to create depth and atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the proportions of the figure and the placement of the chair.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, using thin washes to establish the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin to develop the facial features, paying close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 04
Add details to the dress and the doll, using broken brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
step 05
Work on the background, using subtle color variations to create depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create a sense of realism.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall effect, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · raw sienna · ivory black

Mix various shades of blue and white for the dress. Use burnt umber and white for the chair. Add touches of red and yellow to create warmth in the skin tones.

techniques