plate no. 1094
Ramon Llull
Francesco Ribalta, 1620
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing the likeness and character of an elderly subject, as well as mastering chiaroscuro to create depth and drama.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the figure, books, and table.
- step 02
Establish the dark background using a thin wash of black or dark umber.
- step 03
Block in the main areas of light on the face, hands, and books with mid-tones.
- step 04
Gradually build up the highlights on the face, beard, and hands, paying attention to the subtle variations in skin tone.
- step 05
Refine the details of the books, including the pages and bindings.
- step 06
Add shadows to define the forms and create depth.
- step 07
Glaze over areas to unify the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium yellow light · alizarin crimson
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, burnt sienna, and a touch of yellow ochre or alizarin crimson. Use raw umber and ivory black to create the dark background and shadows. Mix white with a touch of yellow ochre and raw umber for the books.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·portraiture
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Creating harsh lines instead of soft transitions.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using too much paint and losing the subtle nuances of color.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#6 filbert brush
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A toned canvas can help to establish the dark background more easily.
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