plate no. 9488
Saint Сhristopher
Jusepe de Ribera, 1637
some experience helpful
This painting provides a great opportunity to practice chiaroscuro and rendering human figures with realistic skin tones. Students can also learn about creating a focal point through light and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the globe.
- step 02
Establish the dark background with a thin wash of burnt umber.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures with mid-tones, paying attention to the light source.
- step 04
Begin layering highlights and shadows to define the forms, using a limited palette.
- step 05
Refine the details of the faces, hands, and feet, focusing on accurate proportions and expressions.
- step 06
Add subtle color variations to the skin tones to create depth and realism.
- step 07
Paint the globe, using dark tones and highlights to create a sense of roundness.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust values to create a cohesive and dynamic composition.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, sienna, and a touch of umber. Use black and umber for shadows, and white with a touch of sienna for highlights.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·portraiture
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using too much color and losing the tonal harmony.
- →Inaccurate proportions of the figures.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth texture for easier blending. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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