plate no. 5437

Reading the Stele

oilInk and wash paintinglandscapelandscapetreesfigurerockshorsemountains

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning to create depth with limited values and practicing detailed brushwork for organic forms like trees and rocks. It also provides an opportunity to study traditional ink wash techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare a toned surface with a light brown wash.
step 02
Lightly sketch the main compositional elements: the large tree, rocks, distant mountains, and figures.
step 03
Begin with the darkest values, defining the shadows and contours of the rocks and tree trunk using thin washes.
step 04
Layer progressively lighter washes to build up the form and volume of the rocks and tree.
step 05
Use finer brushes to add details to the branches and twigs, creating a sense of depth and texture.
step 06
Paint the distant mountains with very diluted washes to create atmospheric perspective.
step 07
Add the figures and horse with simple, delicate brushstrokes.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed to create a cohesive composition.

color palette

primary · sepia · raw umber

secondary · ivory black · burnt sienna

Achieve various shades by diluting the primary colors with water or blending them in different ratios. Use more water for lighter tones and less for darker tones.

techniques