plate no. 7695
Saxon figurines
Serge Sudeikin, 1911
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing, broken color techniques, and capturing the texture of fabrics and patterns. It also encourages observation of subtle color variations within seemingly monochromatic areas.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figurines and the background pattern.
- step 02
Establish the main color blocks for the background using thin washes.
- step 03
Begin building up the background pattern with short, broken brushstrokes of varying colors.
- step 04
Block in the basic shapes and values of the figurines.
- step 05
Refine the details of the figurines, paying attention to the subtle color variations in the highlights and shadows.
- step 06
Add the floral details around the figurines and in the background.
- step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to match the original painting.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · red ochre · burnt umber · titanium white · cadmium yellow
secondary · ultramarine blue · alizarin crimson · sap green
Achieve the warm, earthy tones by mixing red ochre, burnt umber, and titanium white. Use small amounts of ultramarine blue to create cooler shadows and grays. Mix alizarin crimson and cadmium yellow for the reds and oranges in the background.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·color mixing
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overblending the colors, resulting in a flat and lifeless appearance.
- →Failing to capture the subtle color variations within the seemingly monochromatic areas.
- →Getting lost in the details of the pattern and losing the overall composition.
- →Using too much paint, resulting in a muddy and overworked painting.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·oil paints (red ochre, burnt umber, titanium white, cadmium yellow, ultramarine blue, alizarin crimson, sap green)
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·varnish
Use high-quality oil paints for the best results. Experiment with different brush sizes and shapes to achieve the desired textures.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
related guides
