plate no. 9075

Portrait of Ye. G. Flug

oil, canvasRealismportraitportraitfiguretablecandlelightshadow

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict dramatic lighting and create a sense of depth using value contrast. It also provides practice in portraiture and rendering textures in low light conditions.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes: the figure, table, and candle.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the background with a dark brown or black.
step 03
Block in the general areas of light and shadow on the figure and table using mid-tone browns and grays.
step 04
Mix a warm yellow for the candle light and apply it to the areas directly illuminated.
step 05
Gradually build up the highlights on the figure's face and hands, blending carefully.
step 06
Refine the details of the clothing and facial features, paying attention to subtle shifts in value.
step 07
Add the reflected light on the table and surrounding objects.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the values and edges to create a cohesive and realistic image.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ivory black · yellow ochre

secondary · titanium white · raw sienna

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, ivory black, and white. Use yellow ochre to create the warm glow of the candlelight, and add small amounts of raw sienna for warmer tones.

techniques