plate no. 9890

Reverend John Wesley (1703–1791)

oilRococoportraitportraitfigurebooktableclerical collarrobes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones. It also provides practice in creating depth and form through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure, book, and table.
step 02
Establish the background with a dark, blended wash, creating a sense of depth.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, paying attention to the overall form and posture.
step 04
Begin layering in the skin tones, starting with mid-tones and gradually adding highlights and shadows.
step 05
Define the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Paint the clothing and clerical collar, focusing on the folds and drapery.
step 07
Add details to the book and table, creating texture and interest.
step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting values and adding final touches.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Achieve skin tones by mixing white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of umber. Darken colors with ivory black and lighten with white. Use ultramarine blue to cool down shadows.

techniques