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home·artworks·Rome in the Morning
Rome in the Morning by Mikhail Lebedev

plate no. 3514

Rome in the Morning

Mikhail Lebedev, 1835

oilRealismcityscapecityscapebuildingswaterarchitecturerivertower
some experience helpful

Recreating this drawing will help students develop skills in linear perspective, value shading, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It also encourages careful observation of architectural details and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and landscape, focusing on overall composition.

  2. step 02

    Establish the horizon line and vanishing points for perspective.

  3. step 03

    Define the main structures, paying attention to their proportions and angles.

  4. step 04

    Add details to the buildings, such as windows, roofs, and architectural features.

  5. step 05

    Sketch the water and reflections, using horizontal lines to create a sense of calm.

  6. step 06

    Begin shading, starting with the darkest areas to establish contrast.

  7. step 07

    Gradually build up the values, using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.

  8. step 08

    Add final details and refine the shading to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · graphite · black

secondary · white · gray

Varying the pressure and density of graphite or charcoal creates different shades of gray.

techniques

  • ·hatching
  • ·cross-hatching
  • ·linear perspective
  • ·atmospheric perspective
  • ·value shading

common pitfalls

  • →Incorrect perspective
  • →lack of value contrast
  • →overworking details
  • →uneven shading

materials

surface · smooth drawing paper

required

  • ·graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
  • ·drawing paper
  • ·eraser
  • ·pencil sharpener
  • ·ruler
  • ·kneaded eraser

optional

  • ·tortillon
  • ·blending stump
  • ·drawing board
  • ·fixative spray

Use a variety of pencil grades to achieve a full range of values. A kneaded eraser is helpful for lifting graphite and creating highlights.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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