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surface prep

The surface should be prepared to accept oil paint. While Gabain’s specific ground preparation is not detailed in the sources, traditional oil painting techniques often involve a primed canvas. The artist should ensure the surface is stable to prevent cracking, adhering to the principle that the quality of the oil leads to a strong paint film (Source 5).

underdrawing

Begin by sketching the subject onto the canvas using charcoal or thinned paint, as is traditional in oil painting (Source 5). Since Gabain was a portraitist, the underdrawing should focus on establishing the likeness and proportions of the sitter, a skill that took centuries for artists to refine (Source 4).

underpainting

Execute a grisaille (monochrome underpainting) using black, ultramarine, and white mixed with oil of copavia or linseed oil (Source 1). This step involves mentally extracting red and yellow colors to establish the values and forms of the portrait (Source 1). This technique allows the artist to focus on structure before introducing color.

Glazing

A transparent coat of color applied over a dry underpainting to modify hue and value without obscuring the underlying form.

Scumbling

A semi-opaque painting technique where the underlying painting shows through, often used to create a grey bloom or coldness over a darker ground.

Fat over Lean

A basic rule of oil painting where each successive layer contains more oil than the previous one to ensure proper drying and prevent cracking.