plate no. 1944

Sarah Leading Hagar to Abraham

oil, canvasTenebrismreligious paintingfiguresinteriorreligious scenedraperytablelight source

experienced study

This painting provides an opportunity to practice dramatic lighting and rendering realistic skin tones. Students can also learn about composition and how to create a focal point using light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, paying attention to the placement of the figures and the main light source.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a thin wash of dark brown or black.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color for each figure and the drapery.
step 04
Begin building up the highlights on the figures, focusing on the areas directly illuminated by the light source.
step 05
Refine the shadows and mid-tones, paying attention to the subtle gradations of color and value.
step 06
Add details to the faces and hands, using small brushes to create realistic textures.
step 07
Paint the details of the drapery and other objects in the scene, such as the table and the lamp.
step 08
Add final highlights and glazes to enhance the overall effect of light and shadow.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · burnt sienna · cadmium red light

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

Mix skin tones using a combination of white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber. Create the dark background by mixing black with a small amount of brown. Use glazes of red and brown to create depth and richness in the drapery.

techniques