plate no. 5302

Portrait of Stanisław August Poniatowski in Coronation Robes

oilBaroqueportraitportraitfigurerobescrowncolumndrapery

advanced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, rendering complex textures like fabric and gold embroidery, and understanding light and shadow to create depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch outlining the figure, main objects, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the basic color blocks for the background, figure, and drapery.
step 03
Begin layering in the mid-tones and shadows, focusing on the form of the figure.
step 04
Develop the details of the face, paying attention to accurate proportions and subtle value changes.
step 05
Render the textures of the robes, fur, and gold embroidery, using layering and glazing techniques.
step 06
Add highlights to create a sense of luminosity and depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the crown, scepter, and other accessories.
step 08
Add final glazes and adjustments to unify the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · ivory black · viridian green

Mix various shades of gray for the clothing and hair by combining white, black, and a touch of blue or brown. Achieve the gold tones by layering yellow ochre, burnt umber, and a touch of red.

techniques