plate no. 0045

Returning from the garden

Rupert Bunny, 1906

oilImpressionismportraitfiguredressmirrorflowershatinterior

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in rendering white fabric with subtle color variations and capturing reflections in a mirror. Students can also learn to create depth and texture through layering and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, mirror, and main elements.
step 02
Establish the background color with a thin wash of red and add the floral pattern.
step 03
Block in the dark values of the mirror frame and shadows.
step 04
Begin layering the white dress, using different shades of white, gray, and hints of other colors to create form and texture.
step 05
Paint the reflection in the mirror, paying attention to the subtle differences in color and value.
step 06
Add details to the flowers and hat, using small brushstrokes to capture their texture and form.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · burnt umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · rose madder

Achieve the various shades of white by mixing titanium white with small amounts of burnt umber, ultramarine blue, and yellow ochre. The red background is toned down with burnt umber.

techniques