plate no. 4654
Saul and the Witch of Endor
Matthias Stom, 1635
experienced study
Recreating this painting will develop skills in dramatic lighting (chiaroscuro) and rendering figures in a dark environment. Students will also learn to create a focal point using light and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 30 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and objects.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the painting with a dark, neutral color.
- step 03
Block in the main light source (candle) and the areas it illuminates.
- step 04
Begin building up the figures, starting with the areas closest to the light source.
- step 05
Pay close attention to the values and how they change as the light falls across the forms.
- step 06
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, adding highlights and shadows.
- step 07
Add the details of the cauldron and other objects in the foreground.
- step 08
Glaze layers to unify the painting and adjust the values.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining ivory black, raw umber, and titanium white. Use cadmium red for the red garments and to add warmth to the skin tones. Mix ultramarine blue with white for the blue details.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·underpainting
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Failing to establish a strong value contrast.
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Not paying attention to the direction of the light source.
- →Using too much color and not enough neutral tones.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·cadmium red oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·varnish
Use a canvas with a smooth surface for easier blending. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the dark values.
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