plate no. 8676

Portrait of Teresa Francisca Mudarra Y Herrera

oilBaroqueportraitportraitfiguredresscurtaintableurn

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering complex fabric textures. It also provides practice in creating depth through atmospheric perspective and subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes and proportions of the figure, table, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the darks and lights with thin washes of paint.
step 03
Focus on the face, carefully building up the skin tones and features, paying attention to subtle variations in color and value.
step 04
Develop the drapery and dress, using a combination of blending and layering to create the illusion of texture and volume.
step 05
Paint the background, using soft, blended brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Add details to the table, urn, and other accessories, paying attention to their form and texture.
step 07
Refine the edges and details throughout the painting, making sure that everything is in harmony.
step 08
Apply a final glaze to unify the colors and add depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining ivory black, raw umber, and titanium white. Use burnt sienna to add warmth to the browns and reds. Create the skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and a touch of cadmium red light.

techniques