plate no. 6481

Portrait of the composer's daughter, EF Napravnik

Zinaida Serebriakova, 1910

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)portraitportraitwomandresschairpaintinginterior

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering skin tones. Students can also develop skills in depicting fabric and creating a sense of depth through color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin refining the skin tones, using subtle color variations to create form.
step 04
Develop the details of the dress and fabric, paying attention to folds and highlights.
step 05
Add details to the chair and background, ensuring they recede into the distance.
step 06
Refine the facial features, capturing the likeness of the subject.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition, making sure all elements work together harmoniously.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · alizarin crimson · viridian

Mix skin tones with white, yellow ochre, burnt umber, and a touch of alizarin crimson. Achieve the blue background by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a hint of burnt umber to tone it down.

techniques