plate no. 8278

Queen Zenobia's Last Look Upon Palmyra

Herbert Gustave Schmalz (Herbert Carmichael), 1888

oilRomanticismhistory paintingfigurearchitecturecityscapeskycolumnshistorical

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex drapery, architectural details, and atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting the human figure in a historical context.

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: the figure, the architecture, and the distant cityscape.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the position of the sun in the sky.
step 03
Block in the main color masses: the sky, the buildings, the figure's clothing, and the architectural elements.
step 04
Start refining the details of the figure, paying attention to the folds and shadows in the drapery.
step 05
Develop the architectural details, focusing on perspective and the play of light and shadow.
step 06
Add details to the cityscape, using lighter tones and softer edges to create atmospheric perspective.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows throughout the painting, adding depth and dimension.
step 08
Add final details, such as the jewelry, the soldiers, and the birds in the sky.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining black, white, and umber. Achieve the warm tones of the architecture by mixing yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and a touch of red. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, adding a touch of yellow ochre near the horizon.

techniques