plate no. 2924

Raising of Lazarus

oilAcademicismreligious paintingfigurescavereligious sceneplantsdoorlight

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery, and creating a focal point using light and color. It also provides practice in rendering realistic skin tones and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the cave entrance.
step 02
Establish the main light source and block in the areas of light and shadow with thin washes of color.
step 03
Begin developing the figures, starting with the central figure and working outwards, paying attention to anatomy and drapery.
step 04
Add details to the cave background, creating depth and texture with varying brushstrokes and color values.
step 05
Refine the facial features and expressions of the figures, using subtle color variations and highlights.
step 06
Paint the foreground elements, such as the plants, adding details and textures to create visual interest.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast, ensuring that the focal point remains the brightest area of the painting.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · ivory black · burnt sienna

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create muted grays and browns for shadows.

techniques